How to Care for a Sick Child Without Using Cold Medicine

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By woodsusa
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Caring for a sick child doesn't need to be tricky.

Caring for a sick child can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be scary. Many parents are concerned about giving their children over the counter cold medicines to treat their common colds and sore throats, and some pharmacies may not carry children's cold medicines since the FDA recommended that they not be used to treat young children and infants. Here are some easy alternatives to help get your child back to feeling great.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Fluids
Ice pops
Children's ibuprofen or Tylenol
Humidifier
Vapor rub
Lemon and honey
Patience
TLC in large amounts

Step 1

If your child has a cold there are several ways to ease the symptoms. You'll have to let the cold run its course, but you can ease your child's suffering. If the main symptom is a sore throat you'll want to keep fluids in them. They may not want to eat or drink because of the throat pain but fluids are essential for healing! Steer clear of milk and let them sip juices or water. Sodas and acidic juices can actually make a sore throat hurt more, so be careful with those. Older children may enjoy hot tea with honey and lemon, or even just hot water with honey and lemon. Ice pops are another great way to keep up the fluids!
Step 2

Coughs can be distressing but they are nature's way of telling us that we need to get rid of something in our bodies. To soothe your child's cough try encouraging them to sip a drink regularly to keep throats moist. Also older children can suck hard candies or sugar free cough drops. But be careful to read the back of the packaging, not all cough drops are suitable for children! Coughing can be worse at night, so you might try placing a humidifier in the child's room to help keep the coughing down.
Step 3

Congestion can make your child miserable, but before you reach for the decongestant why not try running a steaming hot shower or bath and letting your child inhale the steam? Also a vapor rub can provide quick, if temporary relief from congestion. You might try placing some on an old cloth and pinning it inside your child's pillowcase at night. Just be careful to never let the actual vapor creme near your child's mouth or eyes!
Step 4

General aches and pains associated with a cold can be effectively treated with children's Tylenol or ibuprofen. These can and should be used if your child has a fever associated with their cold.
Step 5

Don't force food on a sick child. They will eat when they feel like it! Remember how you feel when you are sick, they will feel the same. Do encourage plenty of rest and sleep. This gives the body a chance to fight back!
Step 6

Do give lots and lots of TLC! Be patient, caring for a sick child can wear you out but remember that is just part of a parent's job. It will soon be over and your child will be back to driving you crazy with all their energy.