If your child does not feel well, you may be wondering if he or she has the flu. Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish between the flu and cold, as they share some symptoms. However, there are some signs that indicate the issue is the flu.
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If you suspect your child has the flu, you may be rushing out for the best over the counter flu medicine. However, not all medication is good for children, especially younger ones, and they all have side effects. Fortunately, there are more natural ways to relieve the nasty symptoms associated with this illness.
Signs Your Child Has the Flu
Some symptoms that a flu shares with a cold are respiratory ones such as chest congestion, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and a cough. A persistent cough, especially a dry one, however, is more indicative of the flu.
Another distinguisher is timing, as in how long it takes for symptoms to appear. Cold symptoms appear gradually, while the flu comes on quickly. The duration of each also differs, as a cold can last for weeks, while a flu generally lasts for up to seven days.
If parents notice the child displaying unusual behaviour, this often indicates the flu. Behaviours may include extreme fatigue, irritability, and lack of appetite. Other signs of the flu include:
• Fever that may take days to subside
• Upset stomach accompanied by nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Chills
Try IV Therapies
During the winter months, many people, especially children need to boost immunity by taking additional vitamins and minerals, because the body is not able to produce them on its own. In addition, it is necessary to ensure the body with enough fresh air and fluids. So there are some ways that will help improve immunity and fight against colds and flu. One of them is vitamin capsules to drink during cold seasons and another is intravenous therapy which you can take starting from 12 years. There are a variety of types of IV fluids, each with a different composition. However, they can also be used to treat specific conditions, and also you can get them from your home to be away from other infections. For example, you can choose Gilbert IV therapy if you are located in Gilbert and have the same opportunity with other cities, which will help to get well in a few days
Home Remedies To Relieve Your Child’s Flu Symptoms
Most flu symptoms clear up on their own after a few days, but it can be hard to watch your child in discomfort. Certain home remedies can help manage and reduce symptoms. Sleep and rest can do a lot, as this allows the body to heal and the immune system to do its job.
It is also important to keep your child hydrated, especially if he or she is throwing up or has diarrhea. Stick with water, clear broths, electrolyte drinks, and decaffeinated teas. Warm drinks also help soothe sore throats. Try adding lemon juice and honey to teas for an added immune boost.
Medication is usually not necessary for the flu, but you may want to give your child something if symptoms are really bad. A homeopathic decongestant is a natural option for chest pain and cough. It does not have side effects or chemicals, and it supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Herbal cough drops, elderberry syrup, and zinc lozenges are also good options.
Steam and moisture help to soothe dry nasal passages and loosen up thick mucus. Place a humidifier in your child’s room or have your child take a warm, steamy bath. Use a bulb suction to remove mucus from children under the age of 2.
The biggest thing to keep track of if your child has the flu, is the fever. If it reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or 40 degrees Celsius and stays there, or increases, take your child to the doctor or urgent care. Also take him or her in if symptoms do not subside after a week.
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