Common cold as the name suggests is common among children. They are absolutely normal and can be dealt with. If it’s a mild cold, home remedies are more than enough to cure them.
Always remember that cold is most contagious from the 2nd to the 4th day once the symptoms start appearing. It is important to explain to your children the benefits of using a tissue paper every time the sneeze. Also, encourage them to wash their hands and face frequently to avoid spreading the germs. Keep their towels and clothes separate so that others in the family remain unaffected.
Some ways you can help relieve cold uneasiness consist of:
· Put saltwater drops in the nostrils to reduce nasal blocking. Saline drops are also available at any medical store or pharmacy.
· A cool-mist humidifier to boost air humidity.
· Apply petroleum jelly below the nose on the skin ease rawness.
· Give them hard candy or cough drops to ease aching throat (for kids older than 3 years).
· Give them a shower with warm water or a heating pad to relieve aches and pains.
· Make them take steam from a hot shower for easy breathing.
Don’t panic about your child’s diet, just ensure he eats when hungry and drinks ample of fluids like water or juice to help restore the fluids lost during fever or mucus production. Stay away from giving them caffeinated beverages which can cause repeated urination and add to the danger of dehydration.
If you think your child is suffering from more than a cold or is getting worse then consult a doctor. Cold will take it’s time to cure, just make sure your child gets plenty of rest, avoids any kind of forceful activity and intakes a lot of fluids which may help them feel better.