There are three home remedies a parent can turn to if their baby or toddler has amild coughwithchest congestion.
This article explains how each of these home remedies works andwhythey work.
It also describes the signs and symptoms of a medical emergency every parent should know.
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If symptoms are relatively mild, it is best to let the infection run its course.
Breathing in steam is another good way to break up mucus and ease a cough.
Try running a hot shower and sitting outside the stall with your child.
Don’t use a humidifier around the clock as overly damp surfaces can promote the growth of mold.
Empty and clean the humidifier every day to prevent bacterial buildup.
The amount of fluid your child needs can vary.
One way to tell is by paying attention to their urine.
Frequent bathroom trips and light-colored pee are good indications that your child is getting plenty of fluids.
In babies, look for frequent wet diapers.
Avoid orange juice as the acidity can irritate a child’s throat.
Milk may also not be good because it can increase mucus production.
Suctioning Nasal Mucus
A bulb syringe can help remove mucus from your child’s nose.
This can prevent nasal and sinus congestion that can impair breathing and make coughing worse.
To use a bulb syringe:
Suctioning before meals can help your child eat better by reducing mouth breathing.
Avoid suctioning more than one to two times a day as this can irritate the nasal passages.
Stop right away if you notice blood in the mucus or your child’s nose.
Infections of these sorts are common.
To help your baby breathe easier, hold them upright until they receive the appropriate medical care.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Should you give kids medicine for coughs and colds?
American Academy of Pediatrics.Coughs and colds: medicines or home remedies?
doi:10.1016/B978-1-4557-4801-3.00066-7
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.Cough in children.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.New CDC study highlights burden of pneumonia hospitalizations on U.S. children.
