A nasty cold and a horrible sore throat--Breastfeeding still?

[Anonymous]

Late Friday I noticed DD was getting a cold. She sounded congested and was coughing a lot overnight and her nose was stuffy. Come Sunday morning, I could definitely tell she had a bit of a cold. I'm making a doctor's appointment first thing on Monday because we're supposed to fly later this week, but I was wondering--I also developed a horrible sore throat on Sunday evening. Does this mean that DD and I possibly have the same thing, and if so, does she also have a sore throat? It hurts so bad--I can't imagine how uncomfortable she must be if she also has the same sore throat. It would explain her whimpering as she nursed today--swallowing hurts the most for me. Also, should I keep breastfeeding, or give her bottles of EBM?

[Anonymous]

most likely you both have the same infection and similar symptoms.
re: BF -
i'd assume she would want to for comfort if not for nutrition. Just go by her cues - she will resist if offered the breast or bottle if she doesn't want it but I'd guess she will want to bf.

[Anonymous]

Continue w/ BF, definitely.

[Anonymous]

BF is definitely a good idea, since your body is kicking out antibodies to whatever you have got. Whether it's the same thing as the baby, it's still good for her to get the antibodies - it can help her if she already has your germ, or if she also gets it. Inevitably the contact between mom and baby is so close she probably will get it. So keep the antibodies coming!

[Anonymous]

Ditto PP's. BF gives comfort, antibodies, and warm fluid to sooth the sore throat.

[Anonymous]

Also, try plenty of saline in each nostril before BF to clear her nose (maybe wait a few minutes before BF to allow snot to clear out) so she can breathe better.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thanks for all the suggestions. We went to the doctor this morning and turns out DD also has an ear infection. Sooo sad!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:BF is definitely a good idea, since your body is kicking out antibodies to whatever you have got. Whether it's the same thing as the baby, it's still good for her to get the antibodies - it can help her if she already has your germ, or if she also gets it. Inevitably the contact between mom and baby is so close she probably will get it. So keep the antibodies coming!

Exactly what I was going to write

Building up that defense is priceless.

As for BFing directly or via bottle: I'm not quite sure what difference it would make? Are you apprehensive above the close contact or the position you hold her when nursing?

Also, you don't say how old your child is, but definitely check with the doc. to see if tylenol is appropriate or any other home remedies (pedialyte/water to keep hydrated, Vicks on the feet, etc.).

[Anonymous]

OP again. DD is 5 months. I was saying about the bottle of EBM because then I could give milk from a few weeks ago when I wasn't sick. But now having talked to the doctor and some BFing friends, I realize my milk is giving her valuable antibodies so BFing is still ok. Thanks again!!

As for the PP asking about medications..the doctor said to give the antibiotics but didn't say anything about tylenol and I didn't ask. Perhaps tomorrow I'll call and ask to see if the tylenol will ease her discomfort.