In many cases, parents give them phlegm syrup when the child is coughing. Sometimes the old syrup kept in the house is also given on the doctor’s slip. But do you know that the syrup given without thinking can also be dangerous for the child? Especially if the age of the child is less than 5 years, then the danger increases significantly. Many of the recent cases have raised serious questions about the safety of phlegm syrup. Meanwhile, it is important for you to know the answers to some questions related to cuff syrup.
For this, we have interacted with Dr. Rakesh Kumar Bagdi, former Pediatric Department in Delhi AIIMS and Dr. Jugal Kishore, Director Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at Safdarjung Hospital.
Question: Why do children get phlegm?
Dr. Rakesh says that in children Cuff That is, there are many reasons for coughing. Such as viral infection, allergies and consuming cold things. Many types of viruses become active when the weather changes, which go into the body through breath and cause phlegm. If a child eats a very cold thing like ice cream, then he can also have phlegm.
Question: What to do if the child gets phlegm?
Never give phlegm syrup immediately when the child is phlegm. Initially, steam him. This makes the mucus loose and makes the breath easier. During the phlegm, keep a light muffler or warm cloth on the child’s throat. During this time, protect the child from dust and smoke and do not take them to the pollution place. If the cough is more than 5-7 days, fever, difficulty in breathing, then take it to the hospital immediately.
Question: Why shouldn’t a child be given phlegm syrup than five years?
Dr. Rakesh says that according to the guidelines from the World Health Organization, it is not recommended to give any kind of cuff syrup to children younger than five years. Giving phlegm syrup to these children can harm them. According to Dr. Rakesh, phlegm in young children can be cured on its own. If it has been made for a long time, then in this case, some medicine should always be given with the advice of a doctor.
Question: How dangerous is it to take phlegm syrup without asking a doctor?
Each phlegm syrup is for different types of cough (dry or bulginal). Taking wrong syrup can increase cough, sleep, dizziness and even liver-kidney damage. In such a situation, you should never give any kind of syrup or even any medicine without the advice of a doctor.
Question: Instead of giving phlegm syrup, which home remedies can be safe and effective?
If the child has mild phlegm, it is better to give him a little lukewarm water in the beginning. Drinking a little lukewarm water repeatedly keeps the throat clean and cough is reduced. Giving half a teaspoon of honey and very small ginger to children older than a year provides relief in sore throat and cough, but these methods should be tried for just two days. If you still do not get rest, then please consult a doctor.
Question: Are Herbal or Ayurvedic phlegm syrup completely safe instead of allopath?
In this regard, Dr. Jugal Kishore says that herbal syrup is considered a little safe, but some people may also have allergies or digestive problems. Their overdose can also harm.