Colds in Newborns with Heart Conditions: Key Insights

Common Cold in Newborns

Dr.
Hsiao, I would like to ask again about my child who has a patent foramen ovale.
How will a cold affect her? What should we pay attention to? The baby does not have a fever, is active, and has a good appetite, but she does have a cough.
I heard from a doctor that coughing between 2 to 5 AM could indicate pneumonia.
Is that true? My baby has been coughing during that time for several days.
What are the other symptoms of pneumonia? Is it possible to help her with chest physiotherapy at such a young age? Thank you for your help.

Ya Ling, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/28

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

1.
The majority of patent foramen ovale cases are benign and will gradually close on their own.
If there are no cardiac complications, a common cold does not have any impact.

2.
Coughing between 2 to 5 AM does not necessarily indicate pneumonia; there is no such assertion.

3.
Common symptoms of pneumonia include fever, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and in older children, occasional chest pain.

4.
If there is a significant amount of sputum and an infant over one month old has insufficient ability to cough up phlegm, it is necessary to assist them in clearing the mucus.

Reply Date: 2013/01/28

More Info

When it comes to understanding the implications of colds in newborns, especially those with pre-existing heart conditions like a patent foramen ovale (PFO), there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is essential to recognize that a PFO is a common condition in newborns and often closes on its own within the first year of life. In many cases, it does not cause any significant health issues. However, when a newborn with a PFO develops a cold or respiratory symptoms, parents may understandably be concerned about potential complications.

Colds in infants are typically caused by viral infections, which can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, and sometimes fever. In your case, since your baby is not experiencing fever and is otherwise active and eating well, this is a positive sign. However, persistent coughing, especially at specific times during the night, can be concerning.
The notion that coughing between 2-5 AM could indicate pneumonia is not entirely accurate. While nighttime coughing can be a symptom of respiratory issues, it is not exclusive to pneumonia. Coughing can occur due to various reasons, including post-nasal drip, allergies, or even mild bronchitis. If the cough is dry and your baby is otherwise well, it may simply be a part of the cold. However, if the cough is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or a change in feeding habits, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

Regarding the question of whether it is safe to perform chest physiotherapy (like chest percussion) on a newborn to help with mucus clearance, this should be approached with caution. Infants have delicate respiratory systems, and while some techniques can be beneficial, they should only be performed under the guidance of a pediatrician or a respiratory therapist. In many cases, simply ensuring that the baby is well-hydrated and using a humidifier can help alleviate coughing and congestion.

In summary, while a cold in a newborn with a PFO can be concerning, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If your baby shows signs of distress, has difficulty breathing, or if the cough persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Regular check-ups with a pediatric cardiologist can also provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues related to the heart condition are being monitored appropriately. Always trust your instincts as a parent; if something feels off, it is better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.

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