I know how frustrating it can be when your child is coughing and you don’t know what to do. Watching them struggle for breath, trying to catch their breath and not succeeding – it’s heartbreaking. As a parent, you just want to make it all better. Coughing is a common symptom of many childhood illnesses, but it can also be caused by allergies, environmental irritants, or even something as simple as a cold virus.
There are a few things you can do to help your child feel better and stop coughing.
Make sure your child gets plenty of fluids
Water or clear juices like apple juice can help thin out mucus and make it easier to cough up. Also, warm liquids like tea can help soothe an irritated throat. I’m a big fan of making sure my kids get enough fluids when they’re feeling under the weather! I make sure they have a glass of water or juice nearby, so they never go more than an hour without a sip. And when they’re really struggling to drink enough, I make them fun smoothies or bubble teas as a special treat.
Use a humidifier or steam inhalation
Using a humidifier or steam inhalation is an easy and effective way to help your child’s coughing fits. The added moisture in the air helps to soothe their throat and airways, making it easier for them to breathe. This can be especially beneficial at night when the air is generally more dry. Taking the time to keep your child’s environment more humid is a great way to both reduce coughing and make them more comfortable. Plus, it’s just one less thing for you to worry about.
Use saline-nasal drops
When my child had a cough, I found that using over the counter saline-nasal drops was really effective in helping them stop coughing. It might sound counter-intuitive, but the drops (which contain a mixture of salt and water to keep nasal passages moist) help to thin out mucus and make it easier for your child to expel from their throat. Plus, the drops with a cooling effect can help soothe and relieve the feeling of a tickle that’s causing them to cough.
Take elderberry supplements
I’m a big believer in elderberry supplements as I’ve seen them work wonders on my own kids, and I’m sure they’ll work the same for yours. Not only do elderberry supplements help alleviate coughing, but they also support the immune system, helping your child to stay healthy and active. So if you’re wondering what to do when your child’s cough won’t go away, consider giving elderberry supplements a try. You may be surprised by how quickly they work!
Try a honey-based syrup
Honey has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help with a cough. Just mix one part honey with one-part warm water and have your child take a small spoonful every few hours. You can even add a few drops of lemon juice to the mixture for an extra boost of vitamin C. The sweet taste and soothing properties of honey will help your child feel better in no time!
Check your home’s air quality
Dust, mold, and other airborne irritants can be triggers for coughing. Regularly checking the air quality in your home can help you identify and remove any triggers to reduce coughing in your child. Investing in an air purifier may also provide relief. Keeping your home clean and dust-free is a great way to breathe easier and reduce coughing in children. Make sure to check the air vents and replace your air filter regularly for optimal air quality. Utilizing plants can also add extra help in filtering out allergens and improve air quality. Open windows and use fans to circulate fresh air too! With a few simple steps, you can keep the air in your home clean and free of irritants.
Monitor your child’s temperature
By keeping track of their temperature, you can ensure that they stay healthy and avoid any potential health complications. Additionally, if your child’s temperature does rise, you can take steps to bring it down and help them feel better. Taking proactive steps like monitoring their temperature can make all the difference in helping your child get better soon. With a little bit of extra care and attention, you can make sure that your child’s cough symptoms don’t become any worse.
Give your child plenty of rest
Coughing often makes it hard to get a good night’s sleep, so make sure your child is getting enough rest. Aim for eight to nine hours of sleep each night and make sure your child is winding down before bedtime with a calming routine like reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music. Your child’s cough may be keeping them up at night, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get the rest they need! Creating a cozy, comfortable atmosphere in their bedroom with plenty of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals can help them feel relaxed and secure enough to drift off into dreamland.
Seek medical attention if needed
If your child’s coughing persists for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be time to see a doctor. Don’t wait too long to get treatment and respiratory relief for your child. A physician can help you determine whether the problem is a virus or something more serious, and provide suitable treatments.
