Your child can develop a cough for any number of reasons, but typically it is due to sinus drainage that irritates the throat or lungs. Sometimes this cough is productive, meaning mucus comes up into the mouth, dry and painful or the result of throat irritation. Most cough remedies can be effective in treating a cough no matter the cause. Over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended for children under the age of six, states KidsHealth.org, a website founded by the Nemours Foundation. When the cough is accompanied by a fever or if it is persistent, seek medical treatment for your child instead of attempting to treat it at home.
Step 1
Increase your child's fluids intake to help thin any mucus that accompanies the cough. Staying well-hydrated can assist in recovery as well as soothing a dry throat. Avoid citrus beverages, as they can burn the throat. Clear broths that are warm can be both soothing to the throat as well as hydrating.
Step 2
Have your child gargle with a salt water mixture if she is old enough. Mix one teaspoon of water with 6 oz. of warm water. Repeat this as often as necessary. Salt water is especially helpful in relieving a sore itchy throat that causes coughing.
Step 3
Steep a bag of caffeine-free tea or herbal tea in a cup of warm water. Mix in one or two teaspoons of honey. Be sure the water is only warm when your child begins to drink. Honey is not recommended for children under the age of one, due to the risk of botulism spores that may be found in the honey.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a cool mist humidifier, saline nasal drops/spray and a bulb-syringe for children too young to carry out other remedies. Keeping the nasal passages moisturized and thinning the mucus with these techniques can reduce coughing. Allow your child to sit in the bathroom while the shower runs for 20 minutes. Breathing in this steam can help open the nasal passages. Use throat lozenges that are not medicated or hard candy for children who are old enough to avoid choking.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Salt
- Herbal tea bag
- Honey
- Cup
