Now that most of the Children’s cold and Flu medications have been removed from the shelf, some parents are wondering what to do when their child comes down with a cold this winter.
Ian Paul, associate professor of pediatrics at Penn State Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pa recently spoke with Foxnews about cold season and a few things that parents could do to alleviate discomfort and help.
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- Give your child a single-ingredient pain reliever such as Tylenol (ed. note: we use dye free), Motrin or Advil. Make sure not to get confused with multi-ingredient products such as Tylenol Cold
- Try saline sprays for congested noses
- Keep your child well-hydrated. Make sure he or she is consuming plenty of liquids
- Always use a humidifier
- Try honey. “We published a study that says honey is more effective than dextromethorphan (the cough suppressant found in over-the-counter medicines),” Paul said. “Just don’t give honey to a child younger than the age of 1.”
- Give your child a single-ingredient pain reliever such as Tylenol (ed. note: we use dye free), Motrin or Advil. Make sure not to get confused with multi-ingredient products such as Tylenol Cold
Additionally, the pediatrics professor also said that,
“If your child’s symptoms seem to be worsening, or if he or she is unable to stay hydrated, it is time to take them to a physician’s office. If they can’t urinate or have trouble making tears or are having difficulty catching their breath, those are reasons to go to the doctor.”
For children under 2 years of age we recommend no medication except for tylenol or motrin (for fever). If your child is under 60 days of age ask your doctor before using even these medications. I know it can be frustrating, as a parent you just want to make your little one feel better but realize that time is the best and safest therapy for most viral illnesses.