If your baby is showing symptoms of a sore throat, you’ll do whatever you can to help them feel better. If you’re at a loss for what you can do, we provide a list of do’s and don’ts below.
Do’s
Follow this list of do’s when it comes to a sore throat:
Know the Cause
According to an article entitled “Approach to a Child with Sore Throat,” “Most sore throats are caused by viruses. Less often, sore throats are due to bacterial infections.” If your child’s sore throat is due to a virus, it should clear within a week or so. If it’s hanging on, it may be bacterial, in which case your baby will need to be seen by an expert at Albany ENT & Allergy Services for a diagnosis and treatment.
Try Home Remedies
Whether the sore throat is viral or bacterial, while you’re waiting to see if the infection will clear, you can try the following:
- Breastfeeding. Nursing can help babies who breastfeed feel better. There are numerous studies that have documented breastfeeding has pain-relieving effects. It can also stop them from crying, which can prevent irritation.
- Humidity. If you baby has a sore throat, they may also be congested, which can lead to coughing and more throat irritation. To combat this, you can run a humidifier in their room while they’re sleeping.
- Nasal suction. Being sick can also cause mucus to drain down the back of your baby’s throat, which is known as postnasal drip. Remove the mucus with a bulb syringe to ease their sore throat.
Give Safe Pain Medicine
Depending on your baby’s age, you may be able to give them pain medications. If your baby is under three months, call a doctor before giving any medications. If they’re over three months, they can take acetaminophen, and if they’re over six months, they can take ibuprofen. Babies cannot take aspirin. Make sure you read the labels carefully and give the appropriate dose for their weight.
Don’ts
If your baby has a sore throat, don’t give them:
- Honey (under 12 months).
- Table food (under six months).
- Water (under six months).
- Decongestants (under four years).
- Cough medicines (under four years).
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a throat expert, call Albany ENT & Allergy Services today.
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