Coughing is part of the body's natural defense for protecting the airways. KidsHealth.org, a resource serviced by the Nemours Foundation, says a cough is one of the most common symptoms of childhood illness. The type of cough can vary depending on the cause. Even though a cough can sound strained or full of mucus, it is not usually a serious concern. The cough helps remove phlegm from the airways. When a cough interrupts a 3-year-old's rest, however, providing some relief may be beneficial.
Steam
Steam is a useful remedy for some coughs, especially a croup cough. This type is characterized by a seal-like barking sound. Exposing a child for 20 minutes to steam from a hot shower can help soothe the inflammation of the windpipe and voice box, suggests KidsHealth.org. Allow the child to rest, read or even play in the bathroom while the steam is being produced. The steam bath can be repeated as often as necessary to help a child breath more easily. BabyCenter.com suggests putting a few drops of menthol, eucalyptus or pine oil into a warm bath to help a toddler feel less congested. These oils can also be placed into vaporizers.
Humidity
Dry air can be especially hard on sick children as it is irritating to the airways. Coughing can be painful on the throat and chest. Increasing the humidity in the air can moisten the nasal passages and the throat. A cool-mist humidifier is best for elevating the moisture in the air. Sleeping with the humidifier running can relieve a cough and help a 3-year-old sleep more peacefully.
Fluids
Cool beverages can help keep a sick toddler hydrated while moisturizing the throat, which may be tender from coughing. Regardless of the illness, fluids are an important part of recovery. Hot beverages may further irritate the throat if it is already sore. A toddler who is willing to drink warm tea with honey should be offered this remedy a few times per day. The honey can coat the throat and relieve pain while herbal teas, especially weak chamomile teas, work to open sinuses that are clogged and thin mucus drainage that may be causing the cough, according to BabyCenter.com
OTC Cough Remedies
Over-the-counter cough medicines are not suitable for use in 3-year-olds, states BabyCenter.com. A toddler should only be given an OTC remedy under health care provider supervision. Lozenges, or cough drops, may be helpful for toddlers at this age. It is important that they are not prone to choking on foods. If a toddler has had hard candies before, then a soothing lozenge may reduce coughing spells. Unmedicated cough drops are just as suitable as sugar-free vitamin drops. Consult a doctor for advice on what product is best for a toddler.
