I read this in the
Kids Health magazine Spring 2008 edition. It made me realize things specially now that
colds is around and the
Ber months are here meaning it's getting cold now. So let's take note of this
warning c:
FDA recommends that over-the counter cough and cold products not be used for infants and children underage 2.
The agency is still reviewing the safety of these medications in children ages 2 through 11.
“Over-the-counter cold medicines should not be used in children younger than 4, particularly those under age 2,” Dr. Mody says. “First of all, these medications are not effective. Studies have shown that when compared with a placebo, cold medicines don’t provide any relief. And sometimes the side effects are worse than a runny nose.” The side effects are usually caused by the “active ingredients” in the medication, including decongestants and cough suppressants. Many cold medicines also contain pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen.
•
Decongestants -may cause excitability, irritability and loss of appetite in babies and young children.
“We’ve seen 2-month-old babies cry non-stop for six to eight hours as a result of toxicity from decongestants in over-the-counter cold medicines,” Dr. Mody says.
•
Cough suppressants — may cause sedation. The danger is the baby may not wake up to eat and could become dehydrated. Too much may cause breathing problems.
•
Acetaminophen — an overdose may cause life-threatening liver and kidney problems. Many parents are unaware that certain cold medicines contain acetaminophen. As a result, they end up inadvertently “double-dosing” with a fever reducer plus a cold medicine.
BETTER HOME REMEDIES“At my house, we treat runny noses with tissues,” says Dr. Mody, a father of three.
For babies and young children who cannot use tissue yet, Dr. Mody has the following advice:
• Use a bulb syringe and saline drops to clean out your baby’s nose, particularly before feeding.
• Space out feedings, maybe a little bit less more often, so your baby doesn’t get as tired.
• Carry your baby face-down around the house. This will help the mucous drip out and cut down the amount of coughing.
Whenever you have concerns about your child’s health, please consult your pediatrician.
Here are my proven effective suggestions c:1.
Water - The best natural medicine. Encourage your child to drink lots of water after going to the CR or after urination. Helps loosen phlem.
2.
Fruit Juice and
fruits - Specially fruits rich in vitamin C. Oranges, Dalandan or Dalanghita, calamansi juice. (not recommended for children with asthma)
3.
Avoid pineapples,
mangoes and
chocolates or
any products with cocoa - it hardens phlem and makes your throat itchy.
4.
Rub or
massage your child with cold rub - touch therapy is great it makes your child feel loved and encourages healing (not too strong and not too light). Helps loosen phlem and creates comfort. Apply it on chest and back .
5. Take 1 tbsp.
honey add 1pc.
lemon or
kalamansi or
water (mix together) is good for colds too. (as
Joanjoyce suggested and thanx I was reminded c:)
Hope this post warned and helped you in any way c:
