The National Institutes of Health characterize the common cold as a viral infection. It often causes nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, sore throats, headaches and even fevers. Children generally suffer from the common cold anywhere between three and eight times a year, which makes treatment an important facet in care. However, there's nothing that can cure the common cold, just methods that can help to relieve symptoms of this condition.
Pain Relievers
Acetaminophen can help to relieve fevers, sore throats and headaches associated with the common cold, according to the Mayo Clinic. The same can be said for ibuprofen. Follow the instruction on the packaging for dosages with children. These are typically based on your child's height and weight. The Nemours Foundation, one of the nation's leading pediatric health systems, warns against the use of aspirin in children under the age of 12 as well as children under the age of 19 with a viral infection. Though rare, it may cause Reye's syndrome, a life-threatening illness affecting the liver and brain.
Rest
Another important component to treating the common cold in children is rest. The Mayo Clinic recommends keeping your child at home if at all possible, especially when she's suffering from a fever. Rest can help the body better fight off the infection that's causing the cold.
Humidifier
Increasing the moisture within the air may not cure the common cold, but it can help to ease some of the uncomfortable symptoms. A cool-mist humidifier in common living spaces can relieve nasal congestion as well as improve troublesome coughs, advises the Mayo Clinic. You may also want to consider knocking up the temperature a couple of degrees.
Fluids
The National Institutes of Health recommend drinking plenty of fluids. Fevers and increased mucus production can deplete fluids in the body, which may lead to a slight dehydration. To combat this, children should continually drink fluids, such as water and juice. The Mayo Clinic urges heating the water and adding a little lemon and honey to soothe sore throats and ease coughs.
Saline Sprays
Saline sprays or drops can help to break up nasal congestions, maintains the Mayo Clinic. Even children can benefit from these sprays or drops. Saline sprays are best used in older children while nasal drops can be used with all ages.
Chicken Soup
The National Institutes of Health also suggest treating the common cold with chicken soup. Experts at this institute explain that the heat, fluid and salt from the soup can actually help to fight off the infection. It may also thin mucus and aid in relieving congestion.
