We often hear that sleep is the best medicine and when your baby is unwell, getting plenty of rest really is important.
Sleep gives your baby's body time to rest and recover and plays an important role in supporting their developing immune system. But, as most parents know, getting a poorly baby to sleep isn't always easy.
So, why is sleep particularly important when your baby is fighting an infection, and how can you help them sleep more comfortably when they're under the weather?
How does sleep support your baby's immune system?
Sleep is important for all of us, but it's particularly important during the rapid growth and development of your baby's first years.
While your baby sleeps, their body is busy carrying out processes involved in growth, development, learning and immune function. Sleep and the immune system are closely connected, which is one reason rest is so important when we're unwell.
Getting enough sleep won't prevent every cold or infection, and sleep itself isn't a treatment for illness. However, giving your baby plenty of opportunity to rest can support their body while their immune system responds to an infection.
Why might my baby sleep more when they're ill?
If your normally active baby suddenly seems sleepier when they have a cold or other minor illness, it can simply be a sign that their body needs more rest.
Fighting an infection takes energy, so your baby may want to sleep more frequently or for longer than usual.
Other babies have the opposite problem. A blocked nose, cough or general discomfort can make settling down much harder, leading to shorter naps and more wake-ups during the night.
Either way, it's normal for your baby's usual sleep routine to be disrupted while they're poorly.
How can I help my baby sleep when they're sick?
When your baby isn't feeling well, comfort and a familiar bedtime routine can make a big difference.
Try to keep things calm before bedtime. A cuddle, familiar story or song and plenty of reassurance can help your baby settle when they're feeling uncomfortable or unsettled.
If your baby has a blocked nose, following advice from your pharmacist, health visitor or GP about suitable ways to relieve their symptoms may also make them more comfortable.
It's also important to keep an eye on their temperature and make sure they don't become too hot while sleeping.
Keep following safer sleep advice when your baby is ill
It can be tempting to change your baby's sleeping position when they're congested, but safer sleep guidance still applies when your baby has a cold or other illness.
Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a firm, flat mattress and keep their sleep space clear. Don't use pillows, cushions, wedges or rolled-up towels to raise your baby's head or incline their mattress.
If you're using a baby sleeping bag, make sure it's the correct size and TOG for the room temperature and choose suitable clothing underneath. Avoid adding extra bedding because you're worried your baby might be cold.
Check your baby's temperature by feeling their chest or the back of their neck rather than their hands or feet, which can naturally feel cooler.
Don't worry if your usual routine changes
When your baby is poorly, their normal routine might go completely out of the window – and that's OK.
They may want more cuddles, need extra reassurance or sleep at different times from usual. Rather than worrying too much about their usual nap or bedtime schedule, focus on keeping them comfortable and giving them opportunities to rest.
Once they're feeling better, you can gradually return to your usual routine.
When should I seek medical advice?
You know your baby best. If you're concerned about their symptoms, breathing, temperature, feeding or behaviour, or they seem unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, seek medical advice.
You should also speak to a healthcare professional if you're unsure how best to manage your baby's symptoms or whether a medicine or treatment is suitable for their age.
FAQs about babies, sleep and illness
Does sleep help a baby recover from a cold?
Sleep supports normal immune function and gives your baby's body an opportunity to rest while they're unwell. It won't cure a cold, but plenty of rest is an important part of recovery.
Is it normal for babies to sleep more when they're sick?
Some babies may sleep more when they're unwell because their bodies need additional rest. However, if your baby is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake or you're concerned about a change in their behaviour, seek medical advice.
Why won't my baby sleep when they're ill?
Cold symptoms such as a blocked nose or cough can make it more difficult for your baby to settle and may cause them to wake more frequently. They may also want additional comfort and reassurance from you.
Should I raise my baby's mattress when they have a cold?
No. Your baby should sleep on a firm, completely flat mattress. Don't prop up or incline their mattress or use pillows, wedges or rolled-up towels to raise their head.
Should I dress my baby more warmly when they're ill?
Don't automatically add extra layers because your baby is unwell. Choose their sleepwear according to the room temperature and check their chest or the back of their neck to see how warm they feel. Their hands and feet can naturally feel cooler.
Can my baby sleep in a sleeping bag when they have a cold?
A well-fitting baby sleeping bag can still be used when your baby has a cold. Choose the appropriate TOG for the room temperature and adjust the clothing worn underneath as needed.
This article provides general information and isn't a substitute for medical advice. If you're worried about your baby's health or symptoms, contact your GP, health visitor or NHS 111 for advice.
