If your child has recently had a cold or the flu, a persistent cough may linger after all symptoms have subsided. Over-the-counter cough remedies may help reduce your child's cough temporarily, but may make your child feel drowsy and more congested the next day. If it's okay with your child's pediatrician, you can help reduce symptoms of coughing with remedies you may already have in the house.
Humidifier
To help loosen a tight, congested cough, place a humidifier in your child's room overnight and prop her head up with pillows. A humidifier releases water vapor into the air, which helps loosen congestion and prevent a cough. Humidifiers can emit harmful bacteria into the air if they are dirty, says Robert C. Beckerman, M.D., professor of pediatrics and physiology at Tulane University School of Medicine. Clean your humidifier thoroughly with vinegar and water once a week to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Lemon and Honey
Give your child liquids throughout the day to help reduce dehydration and flush out congestion in the body. The Mayo Clinic recommends lemon and honey to help reduce congestion, which will help loosen a cough and make it easier for your child to breathe. Mix a tsp. each of honey and lemon in a mug of hot water, then give the drink to your child when it is warm to the touch. Instruct your child to breathe in the steam from the hot water to loosen the congestion in the nose and lungs.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup, whether canned or homemade, has anti-inflammatory properties, says the Mayo Clinic. Chicken soup can help speed up mucus movement so it does not sit in the lungs, nasal passages and back of the throat. Instruct your child to breathe in the steam of the chicken soup while eating it, as this can help loosen congestion in the chest. Canned chicken soup may contain high sodium levels, so give your child extra fluids after eating a bowl.
