As winter tightens its grip, parents across the UK are bracing for the season of sniffles and coughs. While adults often shrug off a common cold, seeing a baby or toddler fall ill can be a distressing experience. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a prevalent winter virus causing coughs and colds, poses a particular risk to the very young, potentially developing into bronchiolitis for those under two.
Expert Advice for Worried Parents
Thankfully, most cases are mild and can be managed at home. Symptoms of mild RSV typically improve within one to two weeks, while bronchiolitis is usually worst between days three and five, with coughs potentially lingering for up to three weeks. To guide families, NHS doctor Dr Ahmed Ezzat has issued five practical tips to help ease a child's discomfort and support their recovery from these common winter ailments.
1. Managing Fevers Safely
Dr Ezzat's first recommendation addresses fever management. He advises that parents can use children's ibuprofen or paracetamol, like Calpol, to treat high temperatures and the discomfort caused by the virus. It is crucial to always follow the instructions on the packet to ensure the medication is suitable for your child's age and weight.
"If your child has a high temperature and is uncomfortable, give children ibuprofen or paracetamol. Always check the label," Dr Ezzat stated. He strongly cautions against alternative methods like sponging with cold water or stripping off clothes to cool a child down, as these are not recommended.
2. Clearing a Blocked Nose
For little ones struggling with a stuffy nose, Dr Ezzat suggests a simple remedy: saline nose drops, available from pharmacies. These drops can help loosen dried mucus and relieve congestion, making breathing and feeding easier. For further guidance on using them, parents can consult their pharmacist, GP, or health visitor.
3. The Power of Hydration
Keeping a sick child well-hydrated is vital. Fluids help the body fight the infection, thin mucus to clear airways, regulate fever, and prevent dehydration from fluid loss due to fever or vomiting. Dr Ezzat recommends trying smaller, more frequent feeds for babies. For older children, offering extra water or diluted fruit juice can encourage them to drink more.
4. Positioning for Easier Breathing
When your child is awake, try to keep them sitting or standing upright as much as possible. This position uses gravity to help with drainage, preventing mucus from pooling, which can reduce congestion and coughing. Lying flat can worsen postnasal drip and make breathing more difficult, especially with a blocked nose.
5. Prioritising Rest and Recovery
Just like adults, children need ample rest to recover. Rest allows their immune system to focus energy on fighting the virus, helps prevent complications, and can reduce the spread of germs. Ensuring a quiet, comfortable environment is key to supporting their natural healing process.
When to Seek Medical Help
While most cases can be managed at home, it is essential to know when to seek professional advice. The NHS advises parents to call their GP for an emergency appointment or contact 111 if their young child or baby has worrying cold-like symptoms or a fever.
More urgently, if a child is having difficulty breathing, pauses in their breathing, or becomes floppy and unresponsive, call 999 immediately. Dr Ezzat and the NHS emphasise trusting your instincts as a parent and seeking emergency help without delay in these serious situations.
