Many parents visit the doctor hoping to receive a prescription for something that will quickly restore their child to health. There is a strong belief in our society that if there is a symptom, the appropriate substance should be administered. Cough – cough syrup, runny nose – nose drops, etc. Meanwhile, very often the best ‘medicine’ turns out to be time, rest and attentive care.
The vast majority of respiratory tract infections in children are caused by viruses, which the body can deal with on its own. A child’s immune system needs such ‘exercise’ to mature and learn to defend itself. The symptoms that worry us (e.g. coughing or vomiting) are actually the body’s natural defence mechanisms against the multiplying virus.
There is no medicine that can shorten the duration of a cold. Treatment consists of alleviating the symptoms and supporting the body in its regeneration.
Home remedies that really work and cost nothing:
✅ humidifying the air and clearing the nose (saline solution, inhalations, aspirator),
✅ adequate hydration,
✅ rest and sleep (note: lying in front of a screen is not rest!)
✅ antipyretic medicines (paracetamol, ibuprofen) – only if necessary.
There is no need to use medication for every symptom. Most of these preparations have not been proven to be effective, and some of them can be harmful. Even ‘all-natural’ preparations can cause side effects, and getting your child used to taking sweet
medicines for every infection can have a negative impact on their health.
So why go to the doctor if I won’t get a prescription?
A visit is necessary when the symptoms worry the parents, occur in young children, are severe, there are doubts as to whether it is just a cold, or there are complications requiring specialist treatment.
In that case, can I safely use medicines to relieve the symptoms?
Of course, but be aware that they do not cure a cough or runny nose, they only help to relieve their severity.
