10 Remedies You Can Try At Home To Treat Common Cold In Kids

The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. It is one of the most frequent illnesses in children, especially those attending daycare or school, where they are exposed to various viruses.

Key Points about Common Cold in Kids:

Causes: The common cold is primarily caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. Other viruses such as coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also cause cold symptoms.

Symptoms: Children with a cold typically experience symptoms such as:

Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Coughing
Sore throat
Mild fever (sometimes)
Fatigue and irritability

- Transmission: The viruses that cause colds spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They can also spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces.

- Duration: Cold symptoms usually last for about 7-10 days, though a cough can linger for a longer period.

- Treatment: Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications (under pediatrician guidance) for symptom relief are typical approaches.

- Prevention: Preventive measures include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and teaching children to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.

- Complications: While generally mild, colds can lead to complications in children with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, such as ear infections or worsening asthma symptoms.

Here are some home remedies to help alleviate common cold symptoms in kids:

# Honey

Age: Suitable for children over 1 year old.

How to Use: Give 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. You can also mix honey with warm water and lemon.

# Saline Nasal Drops

Age: Safe for all ages.

How to Use: Use saline nasal drops or spray to clear nasal congestion. You can buy these over-the-counter or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water.

# Steam Inhalation

Age: Suitable for older children.

How to Use: Have your child inhale steam from a bowl of hot water (supervised to avoid burns). You can also use a humidifier in their room to keep the air moist.

# Warm Fluids

Age: Suitable for all ages.

How to Use: Encourage your child to drink warm fluids like soup, broth, or herbal tea to stay hydrated and soothe a sore throat.

# Rest and Sleep

Age: Suitable for all ages.

How to Use: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest and sleep to help their body fight off the infection.

# Chicken Soup

Age: Suitable for children who can eat solids.

How to Use: Serve warm chicken soup, which can provide relief from congestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

# Warm Salt Gargle

Age: Suitable for children over 6 years old.

How to Use: Have your child gargle with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) to relieve throat pain.

# Elevate the Head

Age: Suitable for all ages.

How to Use: Elevate your child's head with an extra pillow when they sleep to help with nasal drainage.

# Ginger Tea

Age: Suitable for children over 2 years old.

How to Use: Boil a few slices of ginger in water, strain, and add a bit of honey. Let it cool to a safe temperature before giving it to your child.

# Vapor Rub

Age: Suitable for children over 2 years old.

How to Use: Apply a small amount of vapor rub to your child's chest and back to help with congestion. Make sure to use a product designed for children.