Coughs and Colds in Kids

To relieve a stuffy nose and congestion

1. Use a humidifier in your child’s room, and clean the humidifier often. A warm bath also may help.  Use warm water or saline nose drops to thin mucus. Place 1-3 drops in nostrils & wait one minute.Older children then may find it easier to blow their nose. For infants & young children, use a suction bulb to suction each nostril.

To relieve a cough and sore throat

1. Cough drops, lozenges, or corn syrup may help soothe the throat. Do not give cough drops to children younger than 4 years because they could choke on them.
2. Drinking warm liquids such as chicken broth or hot chocolate may also be soothing.
3. cough suppressant medicine should be avoided, as coughing helps clear the lungs, see below.

Fever

1. Use Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for fevers, headaches, or muscle aches. These medicines are sold in both infant & child concentrations. Ibuprofen should not be used for infants less than 6 months of age.
2. Read the label carefully to determine the proper concentration & dose for your child.
3. Always use the measuring tool that came with the medicine, or a proper medicine syringe and/or medicine cup. Never use a common kitchen spoon to measure and give medicine.