Kid's Cough Remedies: Varieties and Substitutes
In the quest to provide relief for a child's persistent cough, it's essential to prioritise supportive care and opt for safer alternatives, especially for young children. Here are some home remedies that have been found to be effective in soothing a child's cough and easing associated discomfort.
For children over the age of 2, menthol rubs may help alleviate cough symptoms by improving airflow through the nasal passages and potentially aiding sleep. However, it is important to note that these remedies should not replace professional medical advice.
One such effective home remedy is the use of a cool-mist humidifier. By adding moisture to dry indoor air, it soothes irritated airways and eases coughing, particularly at night.
Hydration with warm fluids, such as broth, herbal teas (decaf), or warm water with honey and lemon, helps soothe the throat and thin mucus. It is particularly beneficial for older children, as honey can coat the throat and reduce nighttime coughing. Honey should never be given to infants under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.
Saline nasal spray or drops safely loosen mucus in nasal passages, aiding easier breathing. This can be particularly helpful for children suffering from postnasal drip.
Elevating the head slightly during sleep may also reduce cough related to reflux and improve breathing comfort. Gentle nose blowing or suctioning for younger children can help clear nasal passages and reduce cough triggers.
However, it is important to note that warm mist humidifiers are not recommended due to the risk of swelling in the nasal passages.
When it comes to over-the-counter cough medicines, they should be avoided entirely in children under 4 years old, and only used in older children if prescribed by a doctor, due to safety concerns and limited proven benefit. Nutritional support with vitamins and minerals like zinc and lysine may also boost immunity and aid recovery, but these should be used as per medical advice.
If a child does not get better within 7-10 days or if they begin to worsen, they should receive medical attention. It is also important to remember that most coughs last up to 2 weeks if a viral infection is the cause, and caregivers can help ease the symptoms of a cough and help a child feel more comfortable using home remedies such as fluids.
In conclusion, home remedies offer a safer and often more effective approach to soothing a child's cough compared to over-the-counter cough medicines. By focusing on symptom relief and supporting natural healing, these remedies can provide relief and comfort for children while minimising potential risks associated with drugs.
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Cough in children. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cough/in-depth/cough-in-children/art-20045016 [2] National Library of Medicine. (2021). Cough in Children. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000029.htm [3] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Cough in Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/respiratory-issues/Pages/Cough.aspx [4] American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2021). Cough in Children. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/cough-in-children [5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Cough. https://www.cdc.gov/childrenshealth/conditions/cough.html
Pfizer's research on potential cough medications might better prioritize the safety of younger children by developing safer alternatives, considering the risks associated with over-the-counter cough medicines for those under 4 years old. A caregiver can block the use of such cough medicines in young children, opting instead for home remedies like warm fluids, saline nasal spray or drops, or a cool-mist humidifier that science suggests are effective in easing a child's cough. However, even with these remedies, it's crucial to remember that if a child's condition worsens or doesn't improve within 7-10 days, professional healthcare should be sought.
