18. Nosebleeds
As a parent, I can attest to how troubling nosebleeds can be in a baby and young child. The cold can reduce the humidity in the air which makes a baby’s nasal passage very dry. The small capillaries that line the nose are more likely to break, especially since youngsters are likely to stick their fingers (and whatever else they can find) up their nose.
Fortunately, there are a few fixes for nosebleeds. The best option is a humidifier constantly running where the baby will sleep and any place they spend a great amount of time. Consider petrolatum jelly just inside of the nose to help them breathe and keep the passage moist. If a bleed occurs, there is generally no reason to worry. Simply pinch the bottom of the nose for 10 minutes while you absorb the blood with a tissue or soft cloth. If the bleed continues for more than 10 minutes it may be worth going to the hospital. As a parent, if you ever feel the bleeds are of a concern, call your doctor for advice.