By Admin 
Cough Syrup for Children: When a child has a cough, parents are often the first to take action. Giving cough syrup. But child disease experts say that doing so is not always right. Excessive cough medicines can cause harm to children instead of benefiting them. Not only do they hide the real cause, but sometimes they can also cause serious side effects or poison-like effects. According to doctors, proper treatment of cough in children is possible only if its cause is first understood. Sometimes simple home remedies are enough to provide relief. Medicines should be used only in necessary circumstances and on the advice of a doctor.
Every cough does not require medicine
Often cough in children is caused by viral infections, such as cold or flu. It gets cured on its own in a few days. Cough syrup only hides the symptoms, not the cause. Because of this, the actual disease is identified late, especially if the cough is due to asthma, allergy or any serious infection.
Too much cough medicine can become poison
Most cough medicines contain ingredients such as decongestants, antihistamines, or sometimes codeine. Their excessive quantity can cause problems like sleepiness, dizziness, increased heartbeat, nausea or difficulty in breathing in the child. Children’s body is more sensitive to medicines, so even a small overdose can have serious effects.
Children digest medicines differently
Compared to adults, the liver and kidneys of children are not fully developed. Because of this, medicines remain in their body for a longer time and are more effective. The dose which is normal for adults can be more effective in children. That’s why doctors always give medicines to children on the basis of weight, and not by guesswork.
Home remedies are safer and more effective
Doctors say that easy home remedies are more beneficial for mild cough. Giving honey to children above one year of age soothes the throat and reduces night cough. Warm soup, herbal tea or plain warm water coats the throat and reduces irritation. Inhaling steam or putting a few drops of salt water in the nose reduces congestion. Along with this, drinking plenty of water and taking adequate rest helps the body in its own recovery. These remedies are cheap, safe and without any side effects.
When is cough syrup necessary?
Doctors may prescribe cough syrup in certain circumstances, such as allergic cough, whooping cough or bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. But even then the doctor decides the quantity, duration and type of medicine. Giving medicine to children on your own without consultation can be very dangerous. Dr Jaikishan Tripathi, consultant pediatric critical care, told TOI that “Cough is a defense response of the body, which expels mucus and dirt from the lungs. Trying to suppress it excessively can be harmful.”
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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