As a parent, witnessing your child battle the discomfort of a cold and cough can be a distressing experience. The sneezes, sniffles, and sleepless nights can leave both you and your little one seeking relief. Although using medicines from the store might seem like a quick fix, trying old-fashioned home treatments can be a gentle and helpful way to make your child feel better when they have a cold and cough.
Home Remedies To Fight Cold And Cough
Honey and Warm Water
The first one on the list is honey and warm water. Honey has natural soothing and antibacterial properties. To prepare this, mix a teaspoon of honey in warm water and give it to your child to sip. This can provide relief for a sore throat and cough. However, make sure you don't give honey to children under one year of age.
Steam Therapy
Steam therapy is a common remedy that work wonders in soothing a congested nose and throat. Create a mini steam room by turning on a hot shower and sitting with your child in the bathroom for a few minutes. Alternatively, use a bowl of hot water, carefully allowing your child to inhale the steam while covering their head with a towel. This helps loosen mucus and ease breathing.
Saltwater Gargle
For older children who can gargle, a saltwater gargle can provide relief for a sore throat. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and have your child gargle (and spit) the solution. This helps reduce throat irritation.
Also Read: Monsoon And Dry Cough: Try These Home Remedies For Relief
Elevating the Head
Elevating your child's head slightly while they sleep can help ease nighttime congestion. You can place a pillow under the mattress to create a gentle incline.
Warm Fluids
It is suitable to drink warm fluids when dealing with cold and cough. Hence, encourage your child to drink warm fluids like soups, herbal teas, or warm water with a squeeze of lemon. Fluids help keep the throat moist and can alleviate coughing.
Humidifier
Using a humidifier in your child's room adds moisture to the air, preventing dryness that can exacerbate a cough and congestion.
Garlic and Ginger
Garlic and ginger naturally possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Mixing a little crushed garlic or ginger in warm water and giving it to your child can help provide relief.
Also Read: Ear Infections In Children: Expert Lists Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Rest and Comfort
A child's body needs rest to recover. Ensure your child gets adequate sleep and create a comfortable environment to promote healing.
What You Should Know
- Consult a Paediatrician: While home remedies can offer comfort, it's important to consult your child's paediatrician, especially if the symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by high fever or difficulty breathing.
- Hydration: Keep your child well-hydrated, as fluids play a crucial role in recovery.
- Listen to Your Child: Pay attention to your child's comfort levels. If a remedy seems to make them more uncomfortable, discontinue it.
- Preventive Measures: Encourage good hygiene habits to prevent the spread of germs. Regular hand washing and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing are important.
- Rest: Allow your child the time to rest and recover fully before resuming normal activities.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert to ensure that your child gets effective treatment.]
