A severe cough associated with a virus, respiratory infection or allergy may persist long after other symptoms subside. Although over-the-counter cough medications may temporarily relieve cough symptoms, they may also cause drowsiness and congestion. Inexpensive home remedies help relieve and reduce severe cough symptoms safely and effectively. Consult your physician if a cough interferes with daily tasks or lasts longer than three weeks.
Humidify
A cool-mist humidifier moisturizes your child's nasal passages and throat, which may relieve cough symptoms. The moisture may also loosen mucus in the lungs. Place the humidifier in your child's room and turn it on 30 minutes before bedtime to allow moisture to fill the room. Follow the directions and cleaning instructions on your humidifier to avoid the growth of mold or bacteria in the machine. Never use a hot humidifier in your child's room.
Steam
If your child has a barky cough, or croup, run a hot shower to create a steam treatment. Turn on the shower or bath, close the door and allow the room to fill with steam. The Kids Health website recommends sitting in the bathroom with your child for 20 minutes to allow the steam to break up mucus in the airways and chest. This treatment should ease your child's cough by helping him breathe easier. Always supervise your child when running hot water or using a steam treatment.
Honey
Honey helps soothe the throat and may relieve symptoms of a nocturnal cough. A study published in 2007 in the "Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine" examined the effects of honey, honey-flavored dextromethorphan and no treatment on sleep issues and nocturnal cough due to a childhood upper respiratory tract infection. Researchers discovered that parents of pediatric subjects who suffered from an upper respiratory tract infection rated honey as the most preferable treatment for cough and sleep issues associated with the infection. Never give honey to babies under the age of 1.
Fluids
Warm or cold drinks or soups contribute to your child's fluid intake and help soothe an irritated throat. Consuming fluids also helps thin mucus in your throat, which affects the severity of the cough. Encourage your child to drink water, warm broth and juice to ensure he stays hydrated. Avoid carbonated beverages and acidic juices, such as orange juice, which can further irritate the throat.
References
- Kids Health; Your Child's Cough; Dr. Iman Sharif; May 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cough
- "Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine"; Effect of Honey, Dextromethorphan, and No Treatment on Nocturnal cough and Sleep Quality for Coughing Children and Their Parents; Ian M. Paul, et. al.; December 2007
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