HOW TO TREAT YOUR CHILD’S FLU AT HOME

By Dr. Jay Schwartz

How to Treat Your Child’s Flu at Home

When your child has a cold or flu, you can try any of these safe home remedies to make your little one feel better.

How to Treat Your Child’s Flu at Home

Stuffy noses can make children incredibly uncomfortable. You can help make the air as moist and breathable as possible by purchasing a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer and placing it in the room with the child. If you do not have a humidifier, you can run the hot water in the bathroom with the door closed and have your child spend some time in the warm steam to loosen the mucus and clear the nasal passages. A warm bath can also be a great comfort when kids are sick.

How to Treat Your Child’s Flu at Home

Above all, sick kids need rest and fluids in order to stave off the infection. Set up a comfortable place for your child to relax and provide plenty of water, juice, and warm broth. Gargling with salt water can also soothe a sore throat.

How to Treat Your Child’s Flu at Home

Before administering any medication, consult your doctor to make sure it is safe for your child. Aspirin can seem harmless, but it has been linked to Reye’s syndrome in children, which can be fatal. If flu symptoms worsen or your child has a fever higher than 103 degrees, visit the emergency room.

About the Author

As the founder of Collin County Pediatrics in Frisco, Texas, Dr. Jay Schwartz dedicates his practice to providing medical care and preventive treatment to children and adolescents.