Answer
Once a virus enters a child's body, it causes a reaction from the body's immune system, which begins to react. This causes often uncomfortable symptoms that can include stuffy, runny nose; scratchy, tickly throat; watery eyes; sneezing; mild hacking cough; congestion; sore throat; achy muscles and bones; headaches; low grade fever; chills; watery discharge from the nose that thickens and turns yellow or green; or mild fatigue.
Medications designed to relieve symptoms can greatly improve how a child feels for the duration of the illness.
- Control fever. Age-appropriate doses of children's medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) should be given according to product recommendations or your doctor's advice. If parents are aggressive in controlling temperature, a child will feel markedly better. Don't give aspirin to a child with fever without consulting the child's physician. Aspirin given as a treatment for viral illnesses in children has been associated with Reye syndrome, a potentially serious or deadly disorder in children.
- Relieve nasal congestion. Use a bulb syringe to remove mucous in younger children. Saline nasal drops may be used before suctioning.
- Encourage fluids. Increased fluid intake will help keep the lining of the nose and throat moist and help to prevent dehydration.
- Increase humidity. Place a cool mist humidifier in the room where your child sleeps.
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