Push Those Fluids
It's always important to keep kids hydrated, and when a cold strikes, fluids help thin out mucus in the nose and throat. But it can be difficult to get your child to drink when a sort throat means it hurts to swallow. Try a cup of heated broth or apple juice — the warmth can help open a stuffy nose and make an itchy throat feel better.
Stay away from beverages like orange juice that are high in citric …show more content…
A low dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help to ease the pain. Be sure to check with your pediatrician before giving your child any kind of pain or cold medication, as many medications that are safe for adults are not approved for use by children.
Never give children medicine containing aspirin, as it has been associated with a serious illness called Reye's Syndrome.
When to Call a Doctor
One of the hardest parts of caring for a child with a cold is knowing when it's time to turn to a service like Curley to consult a doctor. Here are some circumstances that call for professional intervention:
Colds are especially hard on very young children. If your baby is less than three months old, consult a physician at the onset of symptoms. If your child is wheezing, breathing rapidly, or struggling for breath, call a doctor. In serious cases, go to the emergency room. If symptoms last longer than 10 days, you may be dealing with something other than the common cold. A doctor will determine whether further treatment is