Christmas morning is the most exciting morning of the year for so many children and parents. It is the day that your children get to believe in the magic of the holiday season and that you get to take pride in making everything seem so real. Unfortunately, some children will wake up not feeling well.
The winter months are peak cold and flu season, so it is common for children to experience sniffles during winter breaks. For little ones, you can offer a baby chest rub for congestion. Older children can probably take an OTC medicine, but which one?
Consider Your Child’s Symptoms
Before you give your little one anything, consider their symptoms. Sometimes, congestion, a cough, or a sneeze is nothing to worry about. If your child wakes feeling a little under the weather, see how they are doing in a few hours, especially after opening presents from Santa. Many children will make a dramatic recovery after seeing their name on that first package.
That said, maybe your little bundle of joy is experiencing a teething fever, or your toddler has a stomachache. You want to pay attention to the symptoms to know how to proceed. An OTC medicine might be enough to boost morale and enjoy the day, but a doctor’s visit is sometimes necessary.
Best OTC Medicine To Give Your Child
Parents often want the best of everything, the best immune booster, the best cold medicine. Unfortunately, there is rarely a best OTC medicine, especially for little ones. OTC options are often symptom-specific, so you must look for a medicine that suits your child’s current ailments — stuffy or runny nose, cough, sneezing, red eyes, etc.
Also, you need to pay attention to the age a dosage requirements on the label. Many OTC medicines are unsafe or not recommended for newborns or babies under a certain age. Most of the time, for young children, you should consult a pediatrician before administering anything.
When To See a Doctor
Most primary care offices close on holidays, so if a doctor’s visit is necessary on Christmas, you will need to take your little one to urgent care or an emergency room. Before you decide to spend your Christmas in a waiting room, ensure it is really necessary.
Typically, winter illnesses, the flu and colds, do not require emergency medical attention. However, suppose your child is experiencing a high fever, worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, severe headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. In that case, you might want to bring them to a hospital for a check-up. It is possible the symptoms will settle on their own, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
No child should be sick on Christmas. You can help your little one defend against common illnesses by ensuring they eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise. You should also talk to a pediatrician about nutritional supplements your child can take to strengthen their immune system and prevent problems like the common cold or flu. Also, speak to a nutritional expert to learn more about dietary changes that can improve your child’s well-being.
