As the weather changes, the risk of cough-cupImage Credit Source: Getty Images
Changes in weather increase the risk of cough and phlegm in young children. Sudden cold, moisture or dust-pollen affects the respiratory system and viruses or bacteria can easily enter the body. There are two types of cough in children, dry cough in which mucus is not formed and sore throat and wet cough, in which mucus is formed and comes out in the form of phlegm. Kapha or mucus is the natural reaction of the body, which helps to remove mucus and infection from the throat and lungs. When there is phlegm, people often give syrup to the child, but how correct it is to give. Dr. Himanshu Badani has told about this in the Pediatric Department in Delhi AIIMS.
Dr. Badani says that many parents start giving syrup immediately in cough, but it can be dangerous to give phlegm syrup without doctor’s advice. Especially do not give syrup to a child younger than two years. The body of young children is unable to metabolize medicines properly. This can cause problems like lethargy, vomiting, allergies, shortness of breathing. Some syrup contains elements such as alcohol or dextromethorphon, which are harmful to young children. In addition, the syrup only reduces cough, not the root of the disease. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor, so that the medicine can be given in the right amount and at the right time. Buy syrup only after talking to the doctor.
How to identify real and fake when buying cuff syrup?
Dr. Himanshu says that fake phlegm syrup is also available in the market, which are dangerous for health. To identify real syrup, MFG/Expiry date, batch number, FSSAI or DCGI Certification should be seen on packaging. The syrup bottle and label should be clean, without spots or burst. Never trust the cheap syrup purchased from unknown or offline wholesale shops. Always take syrup according to the advice or reliable website of the doctor. Fake syrup can cause vomiting, allergies or severe infections in children. Always give syrup with the advice of a doctor.
Can the child help protect vaccination from cough or flu?
According to Dr. Himanshu, vaccination helps children a lot in protecting children from infections of cough, flu and other respiratory systems, such as pertussis, flu and pneumococcal infections are given to children on time for children. The vaccine makes the immunity of children strong and the disease remains light even after infection. Although the vaccine cannot stop all types of cough, it reduces serious diseases and the risk of hospitalization significantly. Therefore, parents should complete the vaccination of children and take a booster dose on time according to the doctor’s advice.