Nothing is quite as frustrating, concerning, or disruptive as a child with a persistent cough. These coughs can linger for weeks, often outlasting the initial illness. And when nighttime rolls around, a child’s cough can turn into a sleepless ordeal for the whole family—it’s a real challenge.
One of the toughest parts of dealing with a coughing child is the limited options for relief. For starters, over-the-counter cough medications are not recommended for kids under four years old due to the risk of harmful side effects, as noted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Even for older children, these medications often fall short of effectiveness. I vividly recall attempting to get my five-year-old to take a bitter cough syrup that he detested. After three sleepless nights and little improvement, I decided enough was enough.
So what can exhausted parents do? A recent article from NPR suggests a simple and natural remedy that you might already have at home: honey. However, it’s crucial to remember that honey should never be given to children under one year old due to the risk of botulism.
Dr. Mark Daniels, an infectious disease expert at Children’s Health Center, shared insights with NPR about honey’s effectiveness. “Honey is as good as many of the over-the-counter products available,” he stated. Pediatrician Dr. Lisa Hartman, also speaking for the AAP, adds that honey has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. The thick consistency can coat the throat, providing relief from that irritating dry cough.
Dr. Hartman mentions that honey is often a better choice than most cough syrups. She suggests that much of the marketing surrounding these medications is exaggerated. Research indicates that cough syrups don’t work as well in children as they do in adults. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics in 2007 found that honey outperformed the common cough medicine dextromethorphan (DM) in alleviating coughs, particularly those that disrupt sleep. The researchers concluded that honey could be a preferred method for managing coughs related to upper respiratory infections in children.
The good news is that honey is something kids generally love. Plus, it’s affordable and entirely natural—what’s not to like? Here’s how to use honey for your child’s cough, according to the AAP:
- Never give honey to infants under one year old.
- For kids aged one to five, half a teaspoon can be effective.
- Children aged six to eleven can have one teaspoon.
- For kids twelve and older, two teaspoons may do the trick.
Remember to brush your child’s teeth after consuming honey at night to prevent cavities. These are general guidelines, and you can adjust the dosage based on your child’s response. However, it’s advisable to avoid excessive amounts of honey due to its high sugar content, unless you want your kids bouncing off the walls.
Other natural remedies to consider, as suggested by the AAP, include using humidifiers, saline nose drops, and menthol rubs like Vicks. However, if your child’s cough persists or is accompanied by symptoms like fever or difficulty breathing, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician promptly.
So far this season, I’ve been fortunate enough to avoid the dreaded cough in my household. But if it strikes, I’ll be reaching for the honey. My kids, who are not fond of medicine but have a sweet tooth, will surely appreciate it too.
For more insights on managing coughs in children, consider reading this informative post on home insemination and other parenting tips.
Summary: If your child is suffering from a cough, honey may be an effective and natural remedy, especially for children over the age of one. While over-the-counter medications are often ineffective and can pose risks, honey offers soothing properties that can relieve coughing and improve comfort. Always consult with a pediatrician if symptoms persist.
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