01/21/2026
• Consider a fever reducer •
Not every fever needs to be treated, but if your child can't sleep, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Keep the right formula for your child's age on hand—chewables, liquid or infant drops. Follow the package directions carefully to make sure you're giving the right dose. If your child can't keep food and liquids down, a suppository may help.
🔹 Note: Never give your child aspirin for fever or pain, since it can seriously harm their health.
• Keep your child hydrated •
Kids fighting colds or flu need plenty of fluids, especially if diarrhea and vomiting are involved. Electrolyte drinks can help restore the minerals your child's body needs.
🔹 Once they're able to keep food and liquids down, you can switch to plain water. Warm liquids like hot water with lemon, broth and caffeine-free tea are a double remedy, since they replenish fluids and ease sore throats.
• Relieve sniffles without drugs •
Little noses will feel much better after you gently clear away congestion with a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator. Saline drops, sprays and mists or rinses are often part of this therapy, and can be used on their own to help clear nasal passages. These are safe to use multiple times a day. (Tissues, hankies or plain-water wipes are great for catching the drips that might irritate your child's skin.)
• Reach for honey instead of cough syrup •
There are many over-the-counter medicines to treat a child's cough, but health experts point to the benefits of honey ‼️ for children over 1 year old ‼️This simple treatment works by soothing your child's throat and coating cough receptors.
🔹 You can dissolve a half to full teaspoon of pasteurized honey in a warm liquid for your little one to sip. Older children can take honey directly from a teaspoon every 2 hours. Make sure your child's teeth are brushed afterward to avoid tooth decay, especially before bedtime.
• Add a cool-mist humidifier •
Keeping the air in your child's space humidified can relieve a stuffy nose while easing dry coughs. Cool, moist air can also thin congestion and makes it easier to cough up. Be sure to clean the humidifier or v***rizer often to prevent growth of mold and bacteria or buildup of minerals.
• Try mentholated v***r rub to ease nighttime symptoms •
This is a time-tested way to relieve aches and pains and relieve coughs, especially at night. Menthol—the scented, cooling ingredient in the rub—helps open nasal passages so your child can breathe easier.
🔹 Apply the rub to your child's chest, leaving clothing loose so the v***rs reach their nose and throat while they sleep. It's safe for children who are at least 2 years old. As with any medication, read and follow the directions carefully.
If you have any questions or concerns, or need to make an appointment with one of our providers- give our office a call!
📞 641-814-5437
📍925 Church St
Ottumwa, IA 52501
