The symptoms of the flu can bring the same miseries a common cold can---only to a higher extreme. A child may experience a cough, stuffy nose, fever and sore throat. In addition, vomiting, muscle aches and diarrhea are typical in a child's flu. Although the flu can last for three to four days, there are ways to treat the symptoms and increase a child's comfort level right from home.
Liquids
Because fluids can be lost during vomiting or fever-induced sweating, the Mayo Clinic recommends giving a child a variety of liquids to drink. Water, clear broth and juice are the best choices for a sick child. The book, "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Children" explains that the taste buds of children are more sensitive than adults. This means that bland drinks with little flavor or odor may be more tolerable to an upset stomach. If even juice is too flavorful, try deluding it with water. Popsicles are another good way to encourage fluids because they are basically frozen sugar-water. Chicken soup can be soothing to a sore throat. In addition, the electrolytes found it in can help prevent dehydration.
Bulb Syringe
A stuffy nose, which is a common symptom of the flu, can be remedied by using a bulb syringe. This is especially effective on a young child who does not understand how to blow his nose. The Babycenter website suggests making saline drops at home by dissolving 1/2 tsp of salt in 8 oz. of warm water. Using the bulb syringe, squeeze about 10 drops into each of the nostrils. Release the bulb to suction out the mucus and saline solution. Repeat with other nostril. Suctioning a child's nose more than a few times per day can irritate the delicate lining of the nose, so use caution.
Elevation
Elevating the head can help a child with the flu breathe easier. For children still in cribs, experts at the Babycenter website recommend using a towel or thin pillow to elevate the mattress. Place the towel or pillow beneath the mattress to create a gradual slope and prevent suffocation. A young child can even sleep in his car seat. Otherwise, an older child can benefit from an extra pillow beneath his head. He may even be more comfortable in a reclining chair.
References
- Baby Center: Eleven Safe Home Remedies to Soothe Your Child's Cold and Flu Symptoms
- Mayo Clinic: H1N1 flu (swine flu)
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Children" ;The Editors of Prevention Health Books; 1990
