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From Blocked nose to Restful Nights: Dos and don’ts for your little ones during cough and cold
It is crucial to recognise the early symptoms of pneumonia and treat them promptly. (Local18)
A child showing symptoms of cough and cold can be unsettling for the parents as much as for the children. Navigating these symptoms can be a task, but it is essential to provide the kids with comfort by relieving their symptoms and promote rest while taking care of your child. Often maintaining a proactive approach is the best way to help with alleviating discomfort and providing them relief from cough and cold symptoms.
Managing cough and cold symptoms for kids can be difficult but it is also important to remember what to do and what to avoid during such instances. To make it simpler, Dr Jyotsna Arora, Scientist, Vicks, P&G India shares some dos and don’ts to keep in mind while managing a cold:
What to do for cold relief
1. Soothe a sore throat: Sore throats can often hurt while talking or swallowing food and cause irritation. When your child is facing a cough, an effective way of taking care of the cough is to gargle with warm water and salt, sip honey-lemon tea, or use lozenges if prescribed by your pediatrician. Following these remedies can help soothe irritated throat
2. Hydrate regularly: Replenishing water consistently can help with discomfort and managing symptoms. Consuming fluids can help thin mucus and prevent dehydration in kids. It is important to drink warm fluids and water regularly when down with a cold
3. Effective Application of Vicks Vaporub: Vicks VapoRub with menthol and camphor can be effective in relieving a child’s cold symptoms and lead to relief from nasal congestion providing restful sleep for up to 8 hours. For the most effective relief from Vicks VapoRub, use the V Banao, Vicks Lagao technique. Scooping, swirl and then apply a V-shaped amount (about a finger full) by making a “V” on your child’s chest & back. Massage it gently towards the neck, following package directions for safe and effective use.
4. Prioritize rest: It is essential to rest adequately to maintain a good immune system. When suffering from illnesses like colds, ample rest is crucial for recovery. Children should try to get a full night of sleep and avoid activities that can lead to exhaustion.
5. Monitor the symptoms: Keeping a close eye on the symptoms can prevent the infection from getting worse. It is advisable to seek medical advice if the symptoms persist for a long period of time.
What to skip when your child has cold
1. Don’t share personal items: The transmission of viruses can take place when someone has a cold and cough. Avoid sharing utensils, cups, towels, and other personal items without thoroughly cleaning them to prevent the spread of virus. To further avoid transmission of virus, refrain from touching the areas around the mouth, nose, and eyes as well
2. Don’t expose children to extreme temperatures: Excess change in temperatures during illness can cause discomfort. Keep away from extremely cold environments as these may irritate the child’s respiratory system. Maintaining a comfortable room temperature and dressing the child in breathable, if necessary warm layers, are key to helping them feel better
3. Don’t rely only on home remedies: While it is true that home remedies can offer comfort and relief for mild cough and cold symptoms in children, they should not replace professional medical advice. If the symptoms persist, a visit to a doctor’s clinic is always recommended and the most effective course of action.
4. Don’t take medications without consultation: Avoid giving your child multiple medications without consulting a doctor. A doctor can assess your child’s specific symptoms and recommend the safest and most effective medication, considering their age, weight, and overall health.
Now that you are aware of the most common dos and don’ts, you can efficiently manage your child’s cough and cold symptoms, while supporting the body’s healing process. For cough and cold related medicines, always read the label and use as directed. It is important to note that the information shared is not a substitute for medical advice and if there are any concerns about health, consult a healthcare physician.
