Coughing can be very tiring, especially when it occurs in babies who, because they cannot sleep because of the cough, become irritable and begin to cry inconsolably. Therefore, it is advisable to check the sleeping habits for babies. A very effective natural remedy To relieve cough is honey with lemon (this remedy is only applicable to children over one year old).
Honey will help the baby (also works with children and adults) because lines the inside of the throatThis way, the irritation is relieved and the cough may subside. Below, I'll tell you how to apply this natural remedy and other home remedies endorsed by pediatricians to make the night more bearable.
You'll need:
- Miel
- Half a lemon
How to prepare it:
In a saucepan, heat the honey; this will help it become more liquid. Be carefulHot honey reaches high temperatures. When it's more liquid, transfer it to a glass or your baby's bottle and add a few drops of lemon; if you like, you can also add a little water. Mix well. wait until it is lukewarm and give it to her.
The amount of honey will vary depending on the age of your little one:
- If you are between one and five years old it will be enough. half tablespoon of honey (approx. 2,5–5 ml).
- If you are between six and twelve years old you will have to give him a tablespoon (approx. 5–10 ml).
What kind of cough does my baby have?
Although there are many types, the most common are dry cough y cough with phlegmDry mucus is usually due to respiratory irritation and is more bothersome at night; productive mucus moves mucus and helps expel it. It is not advisable to brake excessively coughing with phlegm because it performs a cleansing function, but we can relieve throat irritation and improve rest.
Other home remedies to relieve your baby's cough
- Frequent hydration: Offer on-demand feedings (breast milk or formula) and, if possible, water, warm broths, or warm caffeine-free beverages. Liquids they fluidify the mucus and soothe the throat.
- Cool Mist Humidifier: useful if the environment is dry. Place it near the crib, clean it daily to prevent mold. Avoid use in children with asthma unless otherwise directed by a pediatrician.
- Warm vapors Before sleeping: A warm shower or bath with the bathroom closed helps to loosen secretions. Never leave the baby alone.
- elevated position: Slightly elevate the mattress with a towel underneath (do not use pillows for infants). For older children, an extra pillow can reduce the risk of postnasal drip.
- Physiological saline solution and gentle aspiration: the serum in drops or spray clear the noseIf you don't know how to blow your nose, use a nasal aspirator gently.
- Safe colds: For older children who are already eating solids, whey popsicles or cold yogurt can anesthetize the throat a while.
- Onion cut on the bedside table: Traditional remedy without solid evidence; in some cases, families find it relieves the nighttime mood. If the smell bothers you, avoid using it.
- Gargle with warm salt water: only in children who know how to spit (usually > 6–7 years). Soothes irritation.
Safety and medication recommendations
- Forbidden honey in children under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.
- Over-the-counter cough syrups: They are not recommended for children under 6 years of age and are contraindicated < 4 years unless indicated by the pediatrician, due to lack of effectiveness and possible adverse effects.
- Mentolated Topical: only for children over 2 years of age and following the package leaflet, away from the nose.
- avoid smoke, stuffy environments and intense perfumes: they irritate the respiratory tract.
When to go to the pediatrician
- Trouble breathing (breathing very fast, ribs are visible, whistling).
- High or prolonged fever.
- Barking cough croup type, chest pain when coughing or blue lips.
- cough that lasts more than 2–3 weeks or worsens, persistent vomiting, dehydration.
More Information - Decongest the baby's nose
Photo - Bender's kitchen.
With these guidelines, the classic glass of honey with lemon for children over one year of age and the care of hydration, nasal hygiene, warm steam and elevated position, most coughs due to colds improve in a few days. Prioritize rest, watch for warning signs, and always ask questions when you have questions.
