Toddlers often get coughs, as they are one of the most common symptoms of several childhood illnesses, according to KidsHealth. Children in day care can have up to eight viral respiratory infections accompanied by coughs a year, explains the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. Most coughs in children are not a sign of a serious condition, and you can often treat the symptom at home. In some cases, however, a cough warrants a visit to the your toddler's doctor.
Step 1
Turn on the hot water in the shower and close the bathroom door. Sit in the bathroom with your child for about 20 minutes to allow the steam to soothe your child's cough and throat, recommends KidsHealth. Do not leave your child alone in the bathroom and keep her away from the water to prevent burns and drowning.
Step 2
Run a humidifier in your toddler's bedroom at night to help him sleep. The moisture in the air can help clear up a dry cough.
Step 3
Talk to your child's doctor about over-the-counter cough medicines to help relieve her symptoms. Most cough medications are not recommended for toddlers or children under the age of 4, but your doctor may be able to recommend one if your child's cough is persistent.
Step 4
Use protective airtight covers on your toddler's mattress and pillows. Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly and wash your child's stuffed animals to minimize dust and debris that can aggravate a cough. Keep pets out of your child's bedroom. Pet dander can aggravate your toddler's sinuses and contribute to coughing.
Tips and Warnings
- Most coughs in children are caused by viral infections and will clear up on their own, though they can last up to two weeks, explains the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. Ask your child's doctor about a pertussis vaccine to prevent whooping cough. The immunization is part of the vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis, commonly called DTaP.
- Take your child to the doctor if his cough lasts more than a couple of weeks. Seek medical attention if your child has trouble breathing, coughs up blood, wheezes or has a fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
- Cough medicine (optional)
- Mattress and pillow covers
