Caring for a sick

Pelargonium sidoides extract is derived from a flower (geranium) and has long been used in traditional South African medicine. Studies show the extract shortens the duration of respiratory infections like the common cold. It may also lessen the severity of colds. Results of one study suggest P. sidoides helped reduce cough and sputum production in kids who were suffering from the common cold. Check with your child's pediatric doctor before using.

Results of several studies suggest zinc sulfate is an effective cold home remedy for kids that can reduce the duration of colds when taken within the first 24 hours of developing symptoms. Zinc can be associated with side effects like nausea and altered taste. However, these potential side effects are more common with zinc lozenges than with zinc tablets or syrup. Always consult your child's pediatrician before giving your child any over-the-counter supplement or medication. Ask your pediatrician which cold and flu zinc dosage is right for your child.

Sometimes you just have a bad feeling something isn't right when your child is sick at home. Here are some times when it's best to contact your child's pediatrician or go to a pediatric emergency department if the symptoms are unusual or severe.

Children sick with the flu may not feel like eating much as they may also experience

The old wives' tale regarding a home remedy for fever in kids says, "Feed a cold and starve a fever." That is an old myth, so ignore it. If your child is hungry, let him or her eat. Adequate nutrition is important for a healthy immune system. Here are some tips to make sure mealtime goes well for your sick child.

If the cough does not really bother your child, it may not require treatment. Coughing helps clear the chest of mucus. Coughs in children usually only need treatment if the cough causes discomfort or disrupts sleep. If it is necessary to treat your child, here are a few home remedies for coughs for kids.

A painful sore throat can make kids miserable in a hurry. Plus, for as children, your options for medicating them are limited.

Whether it's from a cold, flu, allergies, or another form of infection, keeping stuffy noses in check is important to your children's health. Not only will they feel better, but stopping a stuffy nose will help stop the spread of infection, too.

For most children, home remedies are the best treatment. Since most colds are caused by viruses, all you can do is treat the symptoms and let the body heal on its own.

A fever is a sign the body is fighting off an infection, but it can also make your child feel worse. There are some home remedies for fever in kids that include the following.