HOME TREATMENT
Medications
- Coughs may be a helpful mechanism for the body to protect the lungs, they do not necessarily need to be suppressed.
- If the cough interferes with a child’s sleep or school or work, a cough suppressant may be helpful. They should not be used under one year of age without discussing with your doctor.
- Dextromethorphan (DM) is an over-the-counter medicine available in many of the cold remedies.
- Codeine cough suppressants are available only by prescription and should not be used without the approval from a doctor.
- Cough drops are not recommended in young children because of a choking risk.
Humidifiers
- These are helpful, especially if a dry cough is present.
- If a child is having a coughing spasm that is difficult to stop, a session in a steamy bathroom with the shower running may be helpful.
- Humidifiers must be kept clean and if possible, distilled water is recommended.
- Cool mist humidifiers are safer than steam vaporizers because of the risk of a curious toddler burning himself with the steam.
Diet
- Milk does not need to be eliminated with a cough or cold, unless milk allergy is suspected.
- Fluids do need to be encouraged, solid foods are not as important.
- Make sure the child is staying well-hydrated.
