Coughs and colds are the bread and butter of childhood, and most run their course in a week or two with simple comfort care. But the pharmacy shelf is full of products, and not all of them are safe for young children. Here is what actually helps, what to avoid, and when a cough deserves a closer look.
What actually helps a cold
There is no cure for the common cold; the aim is to keep your child comfortable while their body clears the virus. The most effective measures are also the simplest.
- Plenty of fluids to keep the throat moist and prevent dehydration
- Rest and a calm routine
- Saline drops or spray to ease a blocked nose, especially before feeds and sleep
- A cool-mist humidifier or sitting in a steamy bathroom to loosen congestion
- Keeping the head slightly elevated for older children to ease nighttime coughing
Honey for older children
For children over one year, a small spoon of honey can soothe a nighttime cough as effectively as many over-the-counter syrups. Honey must never be given to babies under 12 months because of the risk of infant botulism.
What not to give
Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines are generally not recommended for young children, and dosing varies by product and age. Never give aspirin to a child or teen with a viral illness. Always confirm any medicine and dose with a pharmacist or doctor first.
Why antibiotics usually won't help
Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics only work against bacteria. Giving antibiotics for a cold will not speed recovery and can cause side effects. A green or yellow runny nose is a normal part of a cold and does not by itself mean a bacterial infection.
Get urgent help if your child
Is struggling to breathe, breathing very fast, has sucked-in ribs or flaring nostrils, blue or grey lips, is too breathless to feed or talk, or becomes very drowsy. Call 911 (US/CA), 999 (UK), or 112 (EU).
When a cough needs a doctor
- A cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Wheezing, noisy breathing, or a barking cough
- High fever that persists or returns
- Coughing up blood, or a cough with chest pain
- Any breathing difficulty in a baby
If a cough is dragging on, sounds different from a usual cold, or you are worried about your child's breathing, do not wait it out alone. A verified doctor on iHealix can listen to your description, review symptoms over video, and advise whether your child should be examined in person.