Cough and cold infection are very common in kids. They usually develop such infections 4-6 times a year. It tenses up everyone in the family, especially parents, seeing their kids cough all night, the result of which their little chest and tummy get sore due to all the exertion. Following are the best home remedies you can use to ease the cough of your kid:
1. Use a cold humidifier to increase moisture in the air of the room where your kid sleeps. It helps in clearing his airways and loosening the mucus.
2. Elevate your kid's head using a pillow under his neck and upper back. It will help him with breathing. It is not advisable for young toddlers, so do consult once with your paediatrician before attempting this.
3. Give him more fluids than a usual day. It will help him in keeping his airways clear and moist. Staying hydrated is necessary for days of sickness as it helps the body fight off the infection.
4. Offer him, honey, with some lemon. To reduce its sweetness, mix it with warm water to make its consumption easier. Honey has anti-bacterial properties.
5. Use saline nasal drops for your kid. These drops help in softening the mucus and thus, removing it. These drops are considered safe.
6. Using vapour rub can be effective too. Applying it on feet is safer than applying it on the chest. Do not use this remedy for your kid below two years and consult your paediatrician before using for your kid older than two.
7. You might have heard the phrase 'talk a walk-in cold'. Many parents believe that taking your kid out for a walk, in cold weather for a very short lapse of time can help him reducing his intensity of cough. Some parents even make their toddlers stand in front of the freezer for a few minutes if they have an intense cough in the middle of the night.