Tips For Getting Kids Through A Spring Cold
Dealing with Spring Colds: Top Tips for Parents
As a parent of four kids, I’ve had my fair share of battles with spring colds. It seems that no matter the time of year, springtime always presents the toughest challenge. As a mom, your number one priority is ensuring your kids are healthy and happy. You teach them about hand hygiene, avoiding sharing food or drink with sick peers, but kids will be kids, and those pesky germs are relentless. Before you know it, despite your best efforts, sickness strikes. Here are some top tips for dealing with spring colds, getting your little ones back to what they do best: being kids.
Hydration is Key
When kids are feeling under the weather, reaching for a drink is often the last thing on their minds. But staying hydrated is critical, especially during illness. Ensure they’re drinking enough fluids, be it water or an electrolyte-replacement drink. This helps to prevent dehydration, which could turn a mild cold into a serious medical situation.
Rest and Recuperation
Rest is necessary for kids’ growing bodies, and even more so when they’re unwell. It doesn’t matter if they’re in bed or on the couch, as long as they’re resting. Keep boredom at bay with a few small toys or their favorite movie.
Comforting Items
Familiar items can make all the difference when kids are sick. A favorite blanket or stuffed toy can provide much-needed comfort and make getting through an illness a bit easier.
Patience, Patience, Patience
Your child may be feeling miserable and demand your full attention, even making strange requests. Be patient. A cold doesn’t last forever, and giving them the love and attention they need during this time is invaluable.
Proper Medication
While medication can’t cure a cold, it can certainly help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. Companies like Pfizer Pediatric offer specific products designed to combat the symptoms of colds and coughs in children. Products like Children’s Advil®, Children’s Robitussin®, and Children’s Dimetapp® can help tackle even the most bothersome symptoms.
Pfizer Pediatric Products
These products include Infants’ and Children’s Advil® for fever and pain relief, Children’s Robitussin® for cough control, and Children’s Dimetapp® for combatting cold symptoms.
Children’s Advil® is suitable for kids as young as 2 and up to 11, and comes in several great-tasting flavors. Additionally, there’s Infants’ Advil® White Grape, which is perfect for fever relief in children aged 6-23 months.
Children’s Robitussin® DM Day/Night Pack helps break up chest congestion during the day, while the nighttime formula relieves coughs and runny noses to help kids get the rest they need.
Children’s Dimetapp® Cold & Cough tackles a child’s most bothersome stuffy and runny noses, all while working to relieve cough.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a bundle of Pfizer Pediatric Platform products. The giveaway is open to US residents aged 18+ until April 22, 2016.
Conclusion
Dealing with spring colds can be a challenge, but with these tips and the right medication, you can ensure your little ones get through this tough time more comfortably and get back to their playful selves faster.
Disclaimer: Always read and keep the cartons for complete warnings and dosing information on Pfizer Pediatric products and use as directed.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”| Tips to Help Get Through a Spring Cold with Kids | Description |
|——————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Hydration | Make sure kids get enough fluids to prevent dehydration. |
| Rest | Kids need lots of rest, especially when they are sick. |
| Comforting Items | A favorite blanket or toy can help comfort a sick child. |
| Patience | Kids may be irritable when they are sick, so patience is key. |
| Proper Meds | Medications can help alleviate cold symptoms. |
| Pfizer Pediatric Platform Products | Description |
|——————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Infants’ and Children’s Advil® | Provides fever and pain relief for ages 6 months -11 years. |
| Children’s Robitussin® | Provides cough control and soothing action for ages 6-12 years. |
| Children’s Dimetapp® | Offers cold-fighting power for ages 6+. |
Understanding Spring Colds
Spring colds can be particularly vexing for parents. The common cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat, and although it’s usually harmless, it can be quite uncomfortable. The symptoms can include a runny nose, congestion, cough, sore throat, and sometimes a mild fever. The cold virus spreads through the air and close personal contact, making children, who often share toys and play in close quarters, particularly susceptible.
Preventing Spring Colds
One of the best ways to prevent spring colds is to teach your kids about good hygiene. Encourage them to wash their hands frequently, especially before meals and after using the bathroom. They should also avoid touching their face as much as possible, as this can provide an entry point for the virus.
Nutrition for Immunity
A healthy diet can also play a significant role in preventing spring colds. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that can boost your child’s immune system. In particular, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which has been shown to help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms.
Outdoor Activities
While it’s important for kids to get plenty of rest when they’re sick, it’s equally important to encourage them to be active when they’re healthy. Regular physical activity can help strengthen their immune system and make them less susceptible to colds.
Humidifiers
Dry air can make cold symptoms worse, so consider using a humidifier in your child’s room during the spring months. This can help keep their nasal and throat passages moist, making them more comfortable and potentially reducing the duration of the cold.
When to See a Doctor
Most spring colds will resolve on their own within a week or so. However, if your child’s symptoms persist for more than a week, or they develop a high fever, severe headache, chest pain or other worrying symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are spring colds different from other colds?
While the symptoms are generally the same, the viruses that cause colds can vary by season. In the spring, the rhinovirus is particularly common.
Can you catch a cold from being out in the cold?
No, colds are caused by viruses, not by cold weather. However, people tend to spend more time indoors during colder months, which can increase the chances of spreading the virus.
Can a cold turn into something more serious?
In some cases, a cold can lead to a secondary infection, such as an ear infection or sinusitis. If your child’s symptoms worsen or persist for more than a week, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Conclusion
While spring colds can be a nuisance, they’re usually nothing to worry about. By practicing good hygiene, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring your child gets plenty of rest and physical activity, you can help them stay healthy and reduce their chances of catching a cold. And when they do get sick, remember to be patient, keep them hydrated, and provide plenty of comfort to help them feel better.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and believe will be beneficial for my readers.
FAQs
What are the symptoms of a spring cold in children?
Children with a spring cold may exhibit symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing, and fatigue. Fever is less common but can occur.
How can I prevent my child from catching a spring cold?
While it’s impossible to completely prevent a child from catching a cold, good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping their immune system strong with a healthy diet and plenty of sleep can help.
When should I seek medical attention for my child’s cold?
If your child’s symptoms persist for more than a week, they have a high fever, difficulty breathing, or are not drinking enough fluids, you should seek medical attention.
What kind of medication can help with my child’s cold symptoms?
Over-the-counter cold medications like Children’s Advil®, Children’s Robitussin®, and Children’s Dimetapp® can help relieve symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package.
Are there any home remedies that can help with my child’s cold?
Yes, in addition to medication, ensuring your child gets plenty of rest and stays well hydrated can help them recover. Comforting items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal can also provide emotional support.
How can I keep my child comfortable while they’re sick?
Ensure they get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and use comforting items like a favorite blanket or stuffed toy. Over-the-counter medication can also help relieve symptoms.
How can I enter the giveaway for Pfizer Pediatric Platform products?
The giveaway is open to US residents aged 18+ until April 22, 2016. Details on how to enter will be provided in the post.
Can I use these medications for my infant?
Infants’ Advil® White Grape is suitable for infants aged 6-23 months. For other medications, always read the label to check the appropriate age range.
Can my child still go to school or daycare with a cold?
It depends on the severity of their symptoms. If they have a fever or are feeling very unwell, it’s best to keep them home to rest and avoid spreading the cold to others.
Why are spring colds more challenging?
Spring colds can be more challenging due to the change in weather, increased allergens, and the fact that viruses often thrive in the damp, transitional weather of spring.
