Treat your child's chest congestion with a variety of remedies to decrease the symptoms of a cold or flu. When your child is suffering from a cold, mucous may drip down the throat and collect in the lungs. Though your child may be sick for up to two weeks, some treatments relieve congestion and comfort your child. Most colds are not serious and children average six colds a year, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Step 1
Provide fluids such as water, sports drinks or juice to your child. Loosen up mucous caught in the chest, nose and sinuses by encouraging plenty of liquids.
Step 2
Serve a bowl of chicken noodle soup to your child. According to MayoClinic.com, chicken soup decreases nasal congestion, but also has anti-inflammatory and mucous-thinning effects. This results in less mucous in the chest area.
Step 3
Increase the moisture in the air by setting up a humidifier. Add a bit of eucalyptus essential oil to increase the fragrance. Set the machine next to your child's bed at night. Change the water daily, and thoroughly clean the machine about once a week.
Step 4
Have your child take a hot bath or steamy shower to encourage breathing in moist air. Play games while in the bath tub or sit right outside of the shower, if your child doesn't want to get wet.
Tips and Warnings
- Medications only treat the symptoms of a cold. If your child's symptoms last more than a week, seek medical advice. Do not send your child to school until fever-free for 24 hours.
- Do not serve your child caffeinated beverages such as sodas or teas. These beverages increase urination, resulting in the body not becoming hydrated. Avoid medications if possible. The Consumer Healthcare Products Association discourages the use of cold medications with children under the age of 4. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is studying the effects of these medications on older children.
Things You'll Need
- Chicken noodle soup
- Humidifier
- Eucalyptus oil
