23 Nov How to Treat the Common Cold in Toddlers
3 min. readColds are a common occurrence among toddlers. Many healthy children catch between 8 and 10 colds and other viral infections during the first two years of their life, where the symptoms last up to 10 or more days. The good news is that the common cold goes away on its own. Getting sick frequently strengthens the child’s immune system, helping them fight the next virus better.
Symptoms of the Common Cold in Toddlers
Colds are not necessarily caused by getting wet. Your child may get a cold due to other conditions such as bronchiolitis, sinusitis, asthma, pneumonia, or laryngitis. You can treat some of these conditions at home; others require medical treatment. Common symptoms in a toddler usually start with sneezing, a runny nose, scratchy throat, and a lingering cough that worsens at night. Other symptoms may include:
- Watery eyes
- Crankiness and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen glands
Treating Common Colds in Toddlers
There is no instant cure for the common cold in children, but there are many ways to alleviate its symptoms to prevent any feelings of discomfort. Here are the top 4 ways to treat colds in children:
1. Clear Out the Mucus
Using a nasal bulb designed for infants can help suck out the mucus from your child’s nose and help them breathe more freely. If your child is willing to cooperate, have them blow their nose frequently and clean their nasal area properly.
2. Add Moisture
Frequent cleaning of the mucus can leave the nasal cavity dry and inflamed. To prevent this from happening, use a saline spray to dampen the nasal pathways before sucking out the mucus. A saline gel also works well to minimize inflammation. If you live in a dry climate, install a humidifier in your child’s room to add moisture to the air, which will help them breathe more comfortably.
3. Give Plenty of Fluids
Hydration is essential to treat the common cold as it helps loosen the mucus. Add mashed fruits, chicken broth, soups, and electrolyte solutions to your toddler’s diet to keep them hydrated. Avoid artificial juices, soft drinks, or anything with caffeine and additives.
4. Treat the Pain and Fever
If your child is over the age of two, you can consider giving them children’s-formula Tylenol or ibuprofen for cough and cold. Make sure to ask your child’s primary doctor regarding any cold medications, and only proceed once they approve. Follow the medication’s dosage instructions carefully to prevent any errors.
You can also use ½ to 1 teaspoon of honey for treating cough if your child is over age 1. To relieve congestion, raise the head of their bed or put in extra pillows to keep their head elevated. Lastly, apply baby cream or petroleum jelly under the nose to avoid chapping.
Contact Continuum Pediatrics
If your child does not get better within 10 to 14 days, contact Continuum Pediatrics to book a same-day sick appointment in Keller, TX. We offer easy access to a variety of services that ensure the health and well-being of your toddler. Get in touch today by contacting us at 817-617-8600.