Colds & Sore Throats in Babies & Children

Colds & Sore Throats in Babies
Colds are incredibly common for children and it would be no surprise for them to have 8 or more colds in a year. Children gradually build up immunity to the hundreds of different cold viruses that are around with each one typically lasting for 5 to 7 days.
Children under the age of 6 are not advised to take over-the-counter cough and cold remedies especially decongestants unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist. However, you can make life more comfortable for your little one by following our handy guide.
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Drink plenty of fluids
Ensuring your child stays hydrated is key to recovery
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Saline nose drops can be useful
Saline drops are available for all children and can be helpful in clearing a stuffy nose or dried snot
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Paracetamol and ibuprofen can help
If your child has a fever, pain or discomfort then medication can help improve symptoms however make sure you check with a pharmacist or GP first and read the label carefully.
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Wash your hands
Encouraging your child and family to wash your hands regularly will help reduce the likelihood of spreading the cold.
A sore throat can leave your child in a lot of pain. In most cases it is caused by a virus and your child should get better in seven to ten days, however, there are some options to relieve the pain until it has passed.
- Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can help relieve pain, but always follow the instructions carefully
- Keep your child hydrated with frequent sips of fluid but children should not gargle warm, salty water.
- Difflam Spray treats local pain and inflammation (swelling) of the mouth and throat. It contains the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) benzydamine hydrochloride and is used to treat many painful conditions. It can be used by children of any age but follow the instructions carefully.