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MedicinesOral over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines can cause serious harm to young children. The risks of using these medicines is more than any help the medicines might have in reducing cold symptoms.
Luckily, you can easily treat coughs and colds in young children without these cough and cold medicines. Home RemediesA good home remedy is safe, does not cost a lot, and can help your child feel better. They are also found in almost every home. Here is how you can treat your child's symptoms with home remedies: Runny nose:
Blocked nose:
Sticky, stubborn mucus:
Coughing:
Liquids:
Humidity (amount of water in the air):
Treatment Is Not Always NeededIf cold symptoms are not bothering your child, he or she doesn't need medicine or home remedies. Many children with a cough or a stuffy nose are happy, play normally, and sleep well. Only treat symptoms if they make your child uncomfortable, have trouble sleeping, or the cough is really bothersome (e.g., a hacking cough). Because fevers help your child's body fight infections, only treat a fever if it slows your child down or causes discomfort. This doesn't usually happen until your child's temperature reaches 102°F (39°C) or higher. If needed, acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin) can be safely used to treat fever or pain. SummaryIf treatment is needed for coughs and colds, home remedies may work better than medicines. Additional Information:
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances. How can I help my toddler sleep with a stuffy nose?Tips and tricks for clearing your baby's or toddler's nose:. Pump with a saline nasal spray. ... . Suck them out with a nasal aspirator. ... . Try a steam session. ... . Elevate the crib mattress. ... . Run a cool humidifier. ... . Show them how (for toddlers) ... . See their primary care provider.. How can I unblock my toddler's nose naturally?How to treat congestion. Steam inhalation. A warm, steamy room can help loosen thick mucus and make it easier for a child to breathe. ... . Humidifier. A humidifier, especially a cool mist one, keeps the air moist. ... . Bulb suction. ... . Saline nasal sprays. ... . Chicken soup. ... . OTC pain relievers. ... . Plenty of fluids. ... . Changing sleeping position.. What helps stopped up nose at night?Medication, nasal strips, and chest rubs can help with your symptoms.. Take an antihistamine. ... . Diffuse an essential oil in your bedroom. ... . Use a humidifier in your bedroom. ... . Keep your bedroom cool and dark. ... . Apply a nasal strip. ... . Apply an essential oil chest rub. ... . Apply a menthol chest rub. ... . Prop up your head so you remain elevated.. Why do kids noses get blocked at night?Children and infants have narrower nasal passageways than adults, making them more susceptible to nighttime congestion caused by inflammation or excess mucus. Very young children and especially infants, who mostly breathe through their nose, cannot blow their noses as adults can.
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