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Dengue Fever in Children – Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
More than 500 million people worldwide are affected by mosquito-borne diseases, which result in approximately 2.7 million deaths each year. Among the most dangerous and widespread illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes are malaria, Zika virus, chikungunya, yellow fever, and dengue fever. Dengue fever, in particular, is a major public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions. Fortunately, while dengue can be severe, it is often treatable with proper medical care and has a relatively low mortality rate when detected early. However, dengue fever in children tends to spike during peak transmission seasons, making it crucial for parents to recognize dengue symptoms in kids and seek prompt treatment. This article provides essential information to help you understand dengue fever, its symptoms, treatment, and prevention methods to keep your family safe.
What Is Dengue?
Dengue fever is carried by the female Aedes mosquito. This mosquito species can be identified by a striking striped pattern on its abdomen, giving them the name tiger mosquitoes. Usually found in warm, tropical and humid climates, these mosquitoes thrive in the presence of stagnant water (1). This makes dengue far more prevalent at the peak of the monsoons. Interestingly, the Aedes mosquito attacks during the day, unlike other disease-carrying mosquitoes. These mosquitoes usually bite in the early morning and the evening right before and after sunset, according to WHO (2).
It is important to note that the mosquito is simply a carrier, known as the disease vector. The cause of dengue in children as well as adults is not the mosquito itself but rather a viral pathogen known as the dengue virus. There are five strains of dengue viruses, any of which can cause the disease. However, dengue caused by one of the strains will grant total immunity to the disease caused by that particular strain but only partial resistance to the other viruses.
How Does It Spread?
The disease spreads when an infected mosquito bites an individual, transferring the dengue virus into the bloodstream. The virus then attaches itself to the white blood cells, slowly penetrating them as they are carried throughout the body. After replicating inside the white blood cells, they emerge and infect other organs such as the liver, bone marrow, skin, and so on. The disease usually passes in two to ten days as the body sets off an immune response that kills all the viruses. However, in around five per cent of all cases, a more dangerous version of dengue fever can arise, known as Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever. This case has far more complications and requires immediate treatment.
While dengue is not usually present in newborns, mothers with the disease are liable to pass the infection during labour. The virus can also be transmitted through blood transfusion and organ transplants but cannot spread from one person to another (3).
The prevalence of dengue is tricky to calculate, as most cases of the disease are unreported. According to WHO, around three million dengue people are infected with dengue every year, but the actual number might be more than 400 million.
How Long Does It Last?
Dengue fever in kids typically lasts 7 to 10 days, with symptoms like high fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue appearing 4–7 days after a mosquito bite. In mild cases, children recover within a week, but severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome) may prolong illness and require hospitalization.
Types of Dengue in Kids
Dengue in kids can classified into four categories, including:
1. Dengue Fever
This type is one of the most commonly observed types of dengue fever. The signs and symptoms are detailed in this article. Do not ignore the warning signs of dengue fever in a child.
2. Dengue Fever With Warning Signs
This type of dengue fever accompanies warning symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, bleeding, and persistent vomiting.
3. Dengue Shock Syndrome
This is one of the most dangerous type of dengue fever where the blood pressure drops critically low, leading the individual into shock (4).
4. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever
If not given prompt treatment, this type of dengue fever can cause shock, bleeding, and even death. It usually occurs in children below 15 years (5).
Stages of Dengue Fever in Kids
Dengue fever progresses through distinct stages in children, each with varying symptoms and risks. Recognizing these phases helps parents provide timely care and prevent complications. Below are the three key stages of dengue fever in kids.
1. Febrile Phase (Days 1-3)
The illness begins with a sudden high fever (104°F or higher), accompanied by headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, and flushed skin. Some children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or a mild rash. Proper hydration and fever management are crucial during this stage.
2. Critical Phase (Days 4-7)
The fever may drop, but this is the most dangerous stage due to the risk of plasma leakage, leading to severe dengue (hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome). Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, rapid breathing, and fatigue. Immediate medical intervention is essential to prevent life-threatening complications.
3. Recovery Phase (Days 7-10+)
If managed properly, kids gradually recover as their platelet count rises and symptoms improve. Weakness, fatigue, and a lingering rash may persist, but energy levels slowly return to normal. Continued hydration and a nutritious diet support full recovery.
Causes of Dengue in Children
Dengue fever in children is caused by the dengue virus, which is transferred to humans when the infected Aedes mosquitoes bite human flesh. Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are the most common vectors known to spread the dengue virus (6).
Dengue Symptoms in Children
Dengue fever is usually asymptomatic in nearly eighty per cent of all cases, even babies and small children. However, the younger the child is, the more severe the symptoms are, which usually materialise around four days after the infection. Here is a list of dengue symptoms in babies that you should keep an eye out for (7):
1. Flu-Like Illness
In most cases, dengue fever in infants begins with the symptoms associated with viral influenzas, such as high-temperature fever, runny nose, cough, and fatigue.
2. Change in Behaviour
Your child might exhibit more agitation and irritability than usual, even without an apparent reason. He is also likely to cry often and throw tantrums. His appetite will drop, and his sleeping pattern will change drastically. This is because of the fever and flu-like symptoms that your child is experiencing.
3. Physical Discomfort
Affected children might experience muscle and joint aches, dull throbbing pain behind their eyes, back pain, splitting headaches, and so on. The pain feels like the bones are being broken. Dengue, therefore, is also known as “Breakbone Fever”.
4. Gastrointestinal Problems
Your child might complain of shooting pains in the abdomen along with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, which can be mistaken for symptoms of gastroenteritis. Vomiting is an early sign that the child may develop complications; hence he needs to be closely monitored.
5. Skin Problems
A common symptom of dengue is an itchy skin rash that appears in patches. It has been described as a measles-like rash that resembles white islands in the sea of crimson. Another symptom to look out for is a constant itch that appears on the soles of the feet. However, the rash is transient and may disappear even before you see it.
6. Bleeding
Children experience bleeding from their gums or noses due to a drop in the platelet count. The virus slows down the clotting rate of blood, resulting in bleeding. At times, bleeding can also occur in the gastrointestinal tract. However, this happens in complicated cases only and is not experienced by everyone suffering from dengue.
As mentioned above, in rare cases, dengue can turn into far more dangerous conditions, such as Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome. The symptoms associated with these diseases are listed below.
Abrupt and excess blood loss due to tears in the blood vessels.
A rapid shock that occurs due to the bleeding.
A drastic fall in blood pressure.
Possible organ failure leading to coma.
If you have observed your child showing some or all of these symptoms, you must take him to a medical practitioner immediately. However, if you can’t consult a doctor, the next sub-head should help you out.
Things to Do If Your Child Shows Symptoms of Dengue
There are several things to keep in mind if you observe any of the symptoms given below. Here’s what you must do.
Put your child to bed, so that he doesn’t get exhausted, and gets the rest that he needs. He might need to be on bed rest for a certain period of time, depending on the severity of their symptoms.
Give him whatever he likes to eat. Give more liquids than usual and check his urine. Urine should be light and clear.
If your child is still being breastfed, make sure you do not skip his feeds. Breast milk is nutritious and provides enough fluids to the baby. For older kids, you’ll need to ensure they drink enough water. Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) is also recommended to help balance the electrolytes. If you aren’t sure about feeding your little one ORT, you may check with a paediatrician. Oral rehydration salts, which are available at most pharmacies, can be mixed in filtered/boiled water to make the solution. You may feed it to your child all through the day to hydrate him. Other natural ways to rehydrate include tender coconut water and citrus fruit juices. All liquids help in improving the condition.
In case the baby has a high fever, in addition to paracetamol, soak a cloth in cold water and place it on his head. This will help reduce his body temperature.
Avoid medicating your child with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or similar drugs that work to reduce swelling. This is because these medications can lower the platelet count further and can potentially lead to more blood loss.
When you do consult a medical practitioner, your baby will be checked thoroughly for signs to confirm dengue. Here’s how the diagnosis will be made.
Diagnosis of Dengue in Children
As mentioned earlier, if you think your child is exhibiting any of the signs or symptoms as described above, consult a paediatrician as soon as possible. This is especially important if your child shows signs of fatigue, fever, joint pain, and rash. The doctor will conduct a physical examination and blood tests to identify the symptoms. They might ask for your child’s medical history and details about their vaccinations. Further, the paediatrician will ask about the places you have visited with your child. This is because several regions in the country and the world are known to be hotbeds for dengue. If your child has travelled in these regions, the paediatrician will be able to evaluate the situation better. Post this, your baby’s blood sample will be sent to a diagnostic lab to test for the presence of the dengue virus (8).
If dengue is confirmed, the doctor will be able to begin a treatment protocol, which we shall talk about in the next section.
Treatment of Dengue Fever in Children
When it comes to dengue treatment in kids, currently, there is no medication for dengue fever; however, dengue has a very low mortality rate and tends to resolve in a few days to a month by giving symptomatic treatment (9) (10). Only in complicated cases is the mortality rate high. However, there are ways you can reduce the discomfort caused by dengue and speed up your baby’s recovery from the illness.
Make sure your child drinks enough water and fluids along with healthy meals. He must sleep well, too, as it is important for his recovery. So, try to keep him on a sleep schedule, and ensure he doesn’t get worn out. A healthy diet and rest will help strengthen his immune system and destroy the virus.
If the muscle and joint aches get unbearable, they can cause unnecessary distress to your child. Ask the paediatrician to prescribe analgesic medications like acetaminophen, which, unlike ibuprofen, do not bring about a drop in the blood platelet count.
If your child’s symptoms do not improve even after getting enough rest, the paediatrician needs to be notified. There is a chance that it could be Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever. In that case, your child might have to be admitted to a hospital for intravenous (IV) therapy to provide fluids and salts lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea.
The paediatrician may prescribe oxygen therapy, too, and continue monitoring your baby’s blood pressure frequently.
If the symptoms of dengue do not resolve even after hospital treatment, the paediatrician might recommend a series of blood transfusions, which will compensate for the blood lost during the disease.
While most children recover when they are diagnosed with dengue, there are some cases wherein the child may suffer from complications, mainly due to dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Complications Due to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever
Dengue, if not managed well in time, could lead to a severe condition called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, which further could lead to health complications such as:
Blood clots
Seizures
Damage to the heart, liver, lungs and brain
Shock due to excess blood loss
Death
Clearly, dengue can create quite a havoc, especially when it affects a baby. But there are ways you could prevent your little one from contracting the disease. Read on to know more.
Ways to Prevent Dengue Fever
Prevention is better than cure in the case of dengue fever. There are several ways you can avoid getting your baby bitten by mosquitoes that could carry the dengue virus. Here are a few ways to protect both yourself and your family from this illness:
Mosquitoes prefer stagnant water so get rid of any still water lying around your house or locality. Join forces with your neighbours if necessary as this is a public hygiene matter. This will help avoid other mosquito-borne illnesses as well.
Remove any objects that could hold water, such as mugs, buckets, basins, pots, etc. This includes draining sinks and bathtubs. Ensure you remove all the water and wipe them dry.
For standing water that cannot be removed, such as drains, fountains and ponds, you can add small amounts of kerosene to the water to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in it. Kerosene is toxic for mosquitoes. It floats over water and prevents oxygen from entering the water, thus killing hatched larvae, if any, in the water.
Pest control professionals could fumigate your house and neighbourhood. Take care that you and your family are not around when this is being done, as the fumes could be harmful. For a natural alternative, burning coconut husks and shells or neem leaves has been known to drive mosquitoes away.
Have your child wear clothing that covers his body entirely for personal safety. This includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, socks and even gloves if the weather permits.
Ensure your family performs basic hygiene practices such as showering, as body odour is believed to attract mosquitoes.
Use mosquito nets while sleeping, even during the day. They are a safe alternative to mosquito sprays and vaporisers, which may affect your child’s breathing and even cause problems with the functioning of his nervous system.
Mosquito-repellent creams are a good choice if protective clothing and nets are unavailable. Ensure they are safe for children before applying them on exposed skin.
You can also install screen meshes on your window and door frames to keep the mosquitoes out. Buy good quality ones that are less likely to rip as mosquitoes can enter through the smallest openings. Remember to fix any tears in the mesh as soon as possible.
Reduce his outdoor time during the rainy season; instead, introduce him to fun indoor activities like board games, video games and so on. If he does go out to play, teach him to avoid areas with bushy foliage and stagnant water.
When to See a Doctor
Dengue can progress quickly in children, making early medical care crucial. Watch for these warning signs and seek immediate help if they appear.
High fever (104°F/40°C or above) lasting more than 24–48 hours
Severe stomach pain or persistent vomiting
Bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in vomit/stool)
Cold, clammy skin or extreme fatigue/irritability
Difficulty breathing or rapid pulse
Refusal to eat/drink or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, reduced urine)
Drowsiness, confusion, or seizures (indicates severe dengue)
FAQs
1. What is the most common way of diagnosing dengue in children?
The most common and typical way to detect the incidence of dengue in children is through blood tests, which look for either the virus or the antibodies produced in response to the virus.
2. How do you differentiate between dengue and similar other illnesses?
Dengue can be distinguished from other illnesses by specific symptoms such as severe headache, eye pain, and joint pain, especially if the person has been exposed to mosquito bites in areas where dengue is common.
3. Are dengue vaccines safe for children?
There are vaccines available for dengue. However, the availability and the jurisdiction vary with the country and the requirements of the healthcare providers. It is best to consult your doctor for personal guidance on the requirements of the dengue vaccine.
4. Can dengue in children be treated at home?
Home remedies can be undertaken to mitigate and soothe the effects of dengue in children. However, it is best to consult a doctor for proper and timely treatment.
5. Are rashes severe in dengue?
Dengue rashes in kids are one of the common symptoms that come with the infection and go away with the help of treatment.
Dengue is common in tropical zones where the climate allows mosquitoes to thrive. The epidemic is also more likely to spread in third-world countries where public sanitation is given little or no importance. Therefore, it is imperative that you take the required precautions to prevent your child from contracting the disease, especially due to the lack of a cure. Interestingly, there is a vaccine available for dengue fever in some Southeast Asian and Latin American countries, but it remains only partially effective. Research to develop a vaccine for all five types of dengue viruses is still ongoing.
References/Resources:
1. Mayo Clinic – Dengue fever
2. WHO – Dengue: How to keep children safe
3. KidsHealth – Dengue Fever In Children
4. ScienceDirect – Dengue Shock Syndrome
5. National Library of Medicine – Dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever
6. CDC – Dengue
7. Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora – Dengue
8. Nemours Kids Health – Dengue Fever
9. WHO – Dengue and severe dengue
10. American Academy of Pediatrics – Dengue Vaccine & Kids: FAQs for Families Who Live Where Dengue Disease Commonly Spreads
Also Read:
Norovirus in Children
Measles(Rubeola) in Kids
Dengue in Babies and Toddlers
Home Remedies of Dengue for Kids
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Kids
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11 Home Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies & Kids
Cold and flu are infections caused by viruses. Children under six cannot be given over-the-counter cold and flu medication so alternate home remedies can alleviate cold and flu symptoms in babies and children. Before we start with the list of home remedies for children’s colds and flu, you are advised not to try all of these remedies at once or simultaneously, and you should take care that your child does have allergic reactions to any ingredient. Also, consult with your paediatrician before trying these remedies, and remember to keep the baby’s age in mind before using any of them.
Before we move on to the remedies, you must know the symptoms of cold and cough in babies.
Video: 8 Home Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies & Kids
Before we move on to the remedies, you must know the symptoms of cold and cough in babies.
Symptoms of Cold and Flu in Babies
Knowing the signs your baby may show when he has a cold will help you soothe the condition better. Here’s what you should look for :-
Mildly running nose
Mild cough
Sore throat
Stuffy or blocked nose
Loss or decrease in appetite
Restlessness
Mild fever
To treat the cold in babies, it is important that parents try first to comfort them so that they feel better. Fever causes dehydration, and the baby might not always feel thirsty or comfortable drinking. However, it is essential that you encourage him to consume more fluids. Look out for signs of dehydration and feed your baby fluids accordingly.
Here are some signs of dehydration in babies who are under 3 months of age:
Dry and chapped lips.
Sunken soft spots on the skin.
Baby appears less active.
Frequent urination (3 to 4 times in 24 hours).
Let’s take a look at some home remedies to treat the cold and flu in kids.
Home Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies and Kids
These home remedies are safe, gentle and effective in helping babies feel better when they are suffering from cold or flu.
1. Breast Milk
Breast milk contains antibodies which make the body immune to all kinds of germs and viruses, including the cold and flu viruses. Along with this, breast milk also provides hydration. This is one of the best natural remedies for flu in infants. Breast milk can be fed to babies that are under 6 months of age who do not require any other medication.
2. Garlic and Ajwain Pouch
Garlic and ajwain are powerful cures for cough and cold as they contain anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. This mixture is one of the best herbal remedies for the cold in children. Take 2 garlic cloves and 1 spoon of ajwain and dry roast them. Once cooled, put them in a muslin cloth and tie them tight. Place this pouch at a safe distance from the baby’s cot (not on the cot or under the bedding) so that the aroma provides comfort to the baby. This pouch should help clear any blockage the baby might have owing to a cold. Alternatively, you can also rub this pouch on the soles of the baby’s feet to achieve results.
3. Carrot Juice
Carrots contain essential nutrients and vitamins that help boost the immune system. This is one of the best home remedies to treat cold in toddlers. Carrots can be steamed, mashed and diluted with some room-temperature water for babies aged 6 months and above (babies who have been introduced to solids). For older kids who can digest fresh fruit juices, you can go for fresh carrot juice.
4. Saline Drops
Nasal or saline drops are a quick and safe option to provide your baby with some relief from congestion. One can use a dropper to administer the saline drops. Then use a nasal suction bulb to remove the mucus.
5. Use a Humidifier
A humidifier will help provide some relief from cough and cold by moistening dry air. A humidifier can be used in the baby’s room while he is asleep. Ensure that you clean the humidifier regularly or they begin to house mould and bacteria, which can affect your child’s health.
6. Steam Therapy
Run a hot shower and let some steam accumulate in the bathroom. Sit your baby in the steam for 10 to 15 minutes. The steam will loosen the mucus and will relieve the baby from congestion. Make sure your baby is adequately hydrated before and after the steam room treatment, as he will lose a lot of fluids.
7. Lemon Water Mixed With Honey
Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which effectively fights a cold. Squeeze some lemon juice in warm water, and add honey for taste. This remedy is only for children above 1 year, as honey should not be given to children under 1 year.
8. Gargling
Older kids can gargle with salt water to relieve the cold and sore throat. Gargling helps in breaking down the mucus and reducing swelling. Make the baby gargle a few times during the day.
9. Raise Your Kid’s Head
Your child’s body repairs itself at night when asleep, which is why deep, uninterrupted sleep is important for the infection to subside. Raising your kid’s head will prevent the mucous from returning to his system and allow him to breathe easily. Simply take a towel and fold it. Put this towel under your child’s head to elevate his head. You can do so with a soft pillow too. Ensure that the pillow’s height is optimum, as your child may have neck trouble if the pillow is too elevated.
10. Warm Honey and Ginger Tea
A soothing and natural remedy that combines honey’s antibacterial properties with ginger’s congestion-relieving effects. Give your child 1-2 teaspoons of warm honey and ginger tea to ease cold and flu symptoms.
Please Note: If your baby is less than 1 year old, this recipe should be strictly avoided as honey is avoided for babies under 1 year old. Babies and toddlers above 1 year old can have this remedy.
11. Eucalyptus Oil Chest Rub
Create a homemade chest rub using eucalyptus oil, which has decongestant properties. Gently massage the rub onto your child’s chest to help relieve congestion and promote easier breathing during cold and flu episodes.
When you follow these remedies, you must also remember to ensure your baby doesn’t develop other issues. Let’s take a look at the precautions you must take.
Precautions to Take While Using Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies and Kids
Avoid trying any home remedy that involves consuming an oil, herb, or medicine for babies below 6 months of age.
Ensure that the baby gets 18 hours of sleep, and toddlers or older kids get at least 8 hours of sleep when they have a cold and cough.
Do not use honey for children who are less than 1 year old. This could lead to infant botulism (a form of poisoning).
Toddlers and older kids should be encouraged to use a handkerchief and wash their hands to avoid infection.
Wash your and your baby’s hands frequently during this time to avoid infections. 80% of infections spread through touch.
Ensure that your child is not allergic to any ingredient you will be using in your home remedy.
Breastfeed as much as you can. Breast milk has a lot of antibodies that build immunity.
Do not forcefully give food to your baby. Loss of appetite is common during colds and flu.
Your baby’s clothing during a cold and flu should be in accordance with the weather. Keep your baby warm by clothing him in layers.
Keep your child away from daycare or school when he is unwell, especially if he has a fever.
Feed only boiled and cooled water to prevent any other infections in the baby.
Try the recipes on yourself before using them on the baby.
Keep your house clean so no one else falls ill. It is a good idea to disinfect objects that are used frequently.
Try to feed the baby warm fluids that will help flush out the mucus, hydrate him, and relieve him from the cold.
In case, despite trying these remedies, your baby’s health doesn’t show signs of improvement, you must take him to a paediatrician immediately. Read on to know when you must consult a doctor.
When to Consult a Doctor?
You must also observe your child for the symptoms below when using home remedies. If the symptoms persist, you must immediately take your little one to a doctor.
Runny nose and cough with thick, greenish and yellowish secretions.
Sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
Inflamed tonsils.
Increased respiratory rate.
Fever greater than 101 or 104 degrees for more than two consecutive days.
A high fever (100.4 degrees or higher) in babies under 3 months old.
Has a fever that does not subside after taking acetaminophen.
Extremely drowsy or fatigued.
Refuses to eat or drink.
Has breathing issues or is wheezing.
All the above symptoms are indicative of something other than the common cold and would require immediate medical attention.
The above-mentioned remedies will help provide your little one relief from the cold. You could take a trial-and-error approach where you can observe which treatment your baby responds to the best. You must go into prevention mode once your child recovers from the cold and flu.
References/Resources:
1. Ashkin. E, Mounsey. A. PURLs; A spoonful of honey helps a coughing child sleep; J Fam Pract.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3601686/; March 2013
2. Caring for Your Child’s Cold or Flu; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/flu/Pages/caring-for-Your-childs-cold-or-flu.aspx
3. Coughs and Colds: Medicines or Home Remedies?; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Coughs-and-Colds-Medicines-or-Home-Remedies.aspx
4. Cold medicines for kids: What’s the risk?; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/cold-medicines/art-20047855
5. Should You Give Kids Medicine for Coughs and Colds?; USDA; https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds
6. Saketkhoo. K, Januszkiewicz. A, Sackner. MA; Effects of drinking hot water, cold water, and chicken soup on nasal mucus velocity and nasal airflow resistance; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/359266/; October 1978
7. Paul. LM, Beiler. JS, King. TS, et al.; Vapor Rub, Petrolatum, and No Treatment for Children With Nocturnal Cough and Cold Symptoms; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3600823/; November 2018
Also Read:
Safe Home Remedies for Cough in Children
Foods to Eat & Avoid during Cold and Cough for Babies, Toddlers and Kids
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How to Reduce Fever in Child Naturally – Home Remedies & Tips
Fevers are common among children, and there are several ways to reduce fever in children through home remedies. However, persistent or high fever in children requires immediate medical attention. There are several home remedies for fever in kids that are easy and quick to prepare. Fever is a self-defence mechanism of the human body to fight infections caused by viruses or bacteria. Your child may also have a fever as a reaction to a vaccine or drug or due to some inflammatory conditions. If you are looking for easy and natural ways to treat a fever at home, we might help you. In this article, learn about some safe and effective fever home remedies for children.
Facts About Fever in Children
Most parents worry about a fever and do everything to bring it down. However, the temperature reading is not the best indicator of whether a fever warrants concern. As a parent, you need to observe how comfortable your child is. If your child has a low fever and is active, you may not need to intervene at all! However, it is important to monitor a child’s food and fluid intake and urination pattern during a fever. If these are normal, there is no need to panic or rush to a paediatrician. Observe the child for signs of improvement or change. However, if your child is uncomfortable and the fever crosses 104 degrees or persists for two consecutive days, it is time to see a doctor.
Refer to the table below to understand how to calculate the temperature and when to worry about your child’s fever (1):
Method
Age Group
Normal Range (°C)
Normal Range (°F)
Notes
Rectal
0–3 years
(especially above 3 months)
36.6–38.0
97.9–100.4
One of the most accurate ways to check the temperature in infants
Oral
Above 4 years
35.5–37.5
95.9–99.5
Wait 15 to 30 minutes after eating or drinking
Axillary
Any age
36.5–37.5
97.8–99.5
Slightly less accurate; easy for screening
Ear
Above 6 months
35.8–38.0
96.4–100.4
Quick, but technique matters; not accurate before 6 months of age
Forehead
Any age
36.1–37.9
97.0–100.2
Temporal artery device; simple for all
While taking that syrup might be easy, it is not necessarily the best option. Opting for natural remedies for fever at home helps your child build immunity by boosting the body’s ability to fight an infection. Medicines are foreign substances that need to be metabolised. Moreover, medicines like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and Advil are usually administered to reduce fever, but they may cause liver failure and other harmful side effects, such as asthma or gastrointestinal bleeding, if consumed regularly. Although aspirin is recommended for adults, it is not safe for children, and thus not recommended (2).
It is best to administer such medicines only if natural ways to reduce fever fail, or in the following cases when you must contact your paediatrician immediately:
If the child is an infant with a fever of 100.4 degrees or more
If the child has a weak immune system because of another issue, such as chemotherapy
If the child’s fever lasts for two to three consecutive days without accompanying cough, cold, or pain
If the child experiences breathing trouble along with a fever
6 Home Remedies to Treat Fever in Kids
If you wake up at night and find out that your child’s forehead feels warm, do not panic. Take a deep breath and analyse the following :
If your baby is suffering from a cold, then he/she is likely to get a fever
Your child can have a mild fever post-vaccination
Babies have a fever during teething, not because of teething. During this phase, children tend to put things in their mouths, which exposes them to several microbes that may trigger an immune response, causing a fever. Teething does not cause fever (3).
Here are some effective remedies for fever in children, borrowed straight from a mother’s book! These are remedies that our mothers and grandmothers swear by and are very potent in providing relief from fever:
1. Rubbing an Onion
If you are an Indian, you must have heard your mother and grandmother preach about the medicinal benefits of onions. Onion not only helps reduce body temperature but also relieves pain during a fever. Simply cut one whole onion into thin slices and rub 2 to 3 pieces on your child’s feet for a few minutes. This process may be repeated twice a day to reduce fever. A study published in the Indian Journal of Applied Research found that applying onion slices to a child’s feet with a fever significantly lowers their temperature; thus, it should be considered a non-pharmacological approach to reducing fever in children (4).
2. Ginger Bath
Ginger has antibacterial properties that help reduce fever in children. It helps in sweating, which, in turn, helps remove body heat and toxins. Add about two tablespoons of ginger powder to a bathtub filled with warm water. The powder needs to be stirred well. You can give your ailing child a warm ginger bath. Sweating post-bath will reduce his body heat and flush out the toxins. Ginger can be an effective home treatment for fever in children. When giving a bath, avoid contact with your toddler’s eyes.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile Tea is a good remedy for fever-induced tummy ache. With inflammatory and sedative properties, chamomile tea helps soothe an aching tummy (5). Boil water and soak chamomile tea leaves for a minute. Add honey to it and give your child as many drops as they can take, about two times a day. Some children do not enjoy the change of taste, so keep your fingers crossed. Please remember not to give chamomile tea or any herbal concoction to children under 1 year of age.
4. Lemon Juice Added to Honey
Vitamin C in lemon strengthens our body’s immunity. Honey provides our body with nourishment. A combination of the two is effective in reducing cough caused by fever. You can add one tablespoon of honey to one tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix it well and feed your toddler. His fever is sure to reduce.
5. Massage With Warm Garlic-infused Mustard Oil
You must have heard that mustard oil and garlic effectively reduce fever. This is indeed true. In addition, it releases body pain and helps in sweating to remove body toxins. Just heat two tablespoons of mustard oil and add one tablespoon of crushed garlic to it. Leave the mixture undisturbed for two minutes to cool down naturally. Gently massage your child’s chest, back, palms, and soles of the feet with the lukewarm mustard oil, prior to bedtime. After the oil massage, give your child a sponge bath with lukewarm water and keep them hydrated.
6. Raisin Water
Although there is no scientific evidence to suggest that raisins or raisin water treat fever, this remedy is a popular one. We suggest consulting with your doctor prior to trying this remedy. You can soak around six to seven raisins in ½ a cup of water for 1 hour. When the raisins become soft, crush them and strain the liquid. Juice from half a lime may be added to this liquid. Feed your child the raisin paste twice daily. Alternatively, you can raise water by soaking some raisins in clean drinking water and straining the water the next day for drinking.
Home Remedies for Viral Fever
Viral fevers are seasonal infections and can be taken care of at home. There are quite a few viral fever home remedies for toddlers:
1. Coriander Seeds
Phytonutrients and vitamins present in coriander (dhaniya) seeds help in building the body’s immunity. This can effectively protect your child against viral fever. Add coriander seeds to boiling water. When the solution cools down, strain it, and add milk and sugar. Serve the soothing drink to your child to reduce the fever.
2. Dill Seeds
Dill seeds contain monoterpenes and flavonoids, which act as antimicrobial agents to fight against viral fever by effectively reducing body temperature. You may prepare a decoction and feed this to your child to reduce his fever.
3. Basil Leaves
Basil or Tulsi leaves have antibiotic and germicidal properties. They are also antibacterial and fungicidal. Tulsi has been used for fighting viral fever for a long time. Boil 20 tulsi leaves in a litre of water, then add half a spoon of powdered clove. Boil the solution until it reduces to half, then feed it to your child every 2 hours.
4. Rice Starch
Rice starch acts as a diuretic agent. It helps in strengthening the body’s immune system. It promotes urination, which helps flush out bodily toxins. You can use rice starch as a home remedy to effectively reduce viral fever. Boil rice and strain it. Give the fresh, warm leftout water, i.e., rice starch, to your child.
5. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek (methi) seeds contain alkaloids, saponins, and diosgenin, which bear immense medicinal values. They can effectively reduce viral infections. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Make your child sip the strained water throughout the day. It can effectively reduce fever.
6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil also has antibacterial and antiviral properties. You can make your child consume it in small quantities by mixing it with his food.
Note: These remedies are not recommended for young children under the age of 4. Please consult your doctor before trying any home remedy.
Tips to Reduce Fever Naturally
Although it’s quite impossible to eliminate the fever immediately, there are several techniques to bring down your child’s fever without medical intervention. Please keep in mind that these are substitutes for medical treatment. If you want to know how to reduce fever in a child naturally, these could be helpful.
1. A Sponge Bath or Warm Bath
For infants, a warm sponge bath; for older children, a lukewarm bath in a tub can be really soothing during a fever. A warm bath helps regulate temperature. Water should neither be too hot nor too cold (6). Body temperature drops as water evaporates from the body. A cold water bath should be avoided during a fever. Cold water can trigger shivering and may raise the body temperature further.
Note: In the olden days, massaging with a specific type of rubbing alcohol to treat fever was a common practice. However, research indicates that alcohol can spike temperature and even lead to alcohol poisoning. This remedy is best avoided.
2. Use the Fan Judiciously
You might want to revisit the old notions, such as switching off the fan if your child has a fever. Make sure your child is placed in a well-ventilated, airy room. You can always keep the fan on to help circulate air around the child. Just lower the fan speed to keep the room temperature normal so the child does not shiver.
3. Feed Your Child at Regular Intervals
During a fever, the body requires more vitamins and electrolytes as it dehydrates. A child’s diet should include light and easily digestible food, as well as plenty of fluids, during a fever. Bone broth or chicken soup with vegetables can be fed to the child. Bone broth contains a high amount of cartilage, which aids in the production of white blood cells that protect the body against infections.
Make sure your child consumes food that is easily digestible. Feed the child every two hours initially, and when the child is better, you may reduce the frequency to once every four hours. Do not force your child to eat. Spicy, fatty, and high-fibre foods need to be avoided as they are difficult to digest. Custard, light dal, eggs, baked fish, cereals, boiled vegetables, and dry fruits are good meal choices. If you have a baby or toddler, strained bananas and mashed potatoes are perfect. Khichdi made of rice and lentils is another good option.
4. Keep Your Child Hydrated
Apart from soups and solid food, fluid intake in the form of water and juices is essential. Fruits, ORS water, milk, barley water, coconut water, and buttermilk boost the body’s energy level and give the body the needed strength to recover. For babies under 6 months of age, breastfeed or give only extra formula milk to maintain hydration (7). Do not give water to babies under 1 year. When in doubt, discuss this with your doctor, as the amount of extra feed needed will vary based on the baby’s age and weight. ORS (oral rehydration solution) also helps compensate for inadequate fluid intake, which is an essential part of fever treatment at home. An ORS should only be given to children and not babies.
5. Choose Light Clothing
During a fever, children should wear light clothing to help prevent heat loss (8). Layers of clothing aggravate fever by trapping body heat. Use a blanket if the child is shivering.
6. Stay Indoors
Do not expose your child to direct sunlight while they have a fever. Keep the child in a calm and shaded place, preferably indoors. It is better to avoid excessive exposure to public places, as a weak body is vulnerable to infections
7. Ensure Plenty of Rest and Sleep
Adequate rest and sleep can refresh the child. During rest, the body can dedicate energy to healing rather than distributing it to deal with other activities. If the child is reluctant to sleep, pick activities that limit movement, such as colouring, solving puzzles, or playing with a favourite toy. If you have time, tell them stories, watch videos together, or teach them rhymes. This way, with less movement, the body will be able to direct more energy towards healing the actual ailment
8. Saline Drops to Reduce Fever
Saline drops can be prepared by adding a ¼ tablespoon of salt to 230 mL of water. The water needs to be stirred till the salt dissolves completely. Carefully put two drops in each nostril of your child with a dropper. Administering saline drops helps clear a congested nose and reduces fever
9. Avoid Exposure to Smoke
Smoking suppresses the body’s immune system. On being exposed to smoke, the body has to fight harder against the viruses and bacteria. This increases the body temperature. Hence, ensure that your little one is not exposed to passive smoking from cigarettes, nicotine, or any other tobacco products.
10. Use a Cold Compress
Natural home remedies for fever in babies include using a cold compress. A cold compress on the forehead and nape of the neck can effectively reduce fever in toddlers. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 4 tablespoons of cold water. Apple cider vinegar is effective at helping the body cool down. The ingredients need to be mixed well. Use a piece of clean cloth to soak the mixture for a minute. Remove excess water and place it on your child’s forehead and/or nape for a few minutes.
11. Steam Inhalation Helps
If fever is accompanied by a cold, steam can help clear the mucus that causes the fever. A steam bath can be an effective fever treatment at home. Fill the vaporiser with hot water and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil. Help your child take a breath of the steam. Breathing the warm, moist air will help remove mucus and thus reduce fever.
Dealing With Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures are a common phenomenon amongst healthy infants and young children. Wondering what a febrile seizure is? In children aged 6 months to 5 years, high fever can be accompanied by convulsions. You may see your child drooling, rolling his eyes, or vomiting. It is also possible that their body may jerk, twitch, or become stiff. Most febrile seizures happen in children within 24 hours of getting sick. In rare cases, a child may have a seizure before developing a fever. The seizure may last from a few seconds up to 15 minutes, which is usually considered very long (9). Contact your paediatrician immediately if the seizure lasts for more than 3 minutes. Febrile seizures can be equally scary for parents and children. To comfort your child during a seizure, place him on his side. To avoid choking on vomit, turn his head carefully to one side. Do not feed him anything during the seizure, not even medicine.
Please remember that a febrile seizure in a child does not indicate epilepsy. Both have different diagnoses.
When to Call a Doctor?
If your child is experiencing a very high or persistent fever that does not respond well to medication, you should consult a doctor or your child’s paediatrician.
If your child’s fever is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, get medical attention immediately (10):
stiffness or pain in the neck
difficulty breathing
dehydration
sensitivity to light
rash
seizure
extreme sluggishness or drowsiness
stomach pain
continuous crying
Blue lips, tongue or nails
These markers could indicate a life-threatening infection like meningitis. Since infants and babies are highly delicate and sensitive, the threshold for seeking medical attention for them compared to adults is usually low. In general, you can seek medical treatment for a child who:
is younger than 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
is 3–6 months old and has a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher
has had a fever lasting longer than 5 days
displays other signs of illness, like a rash
shows symptoms of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, lack of tears when crying, or diapers that are not very wet
is not eating and appears to be generally unwell
Try these Indian home remedies for fever that do not bear any harmful side effects. Try these as a first line of medication. However, if you do not see improvement or observe that the symptoms are getting worse, consult a doctor.
Also Read:
Viral Fever in Kids
Indigestion in Children
Causes of Gastritis in Kids
Home Remedies for Fever in Babies
Home Remedies for Cold & Cough in Toddlers
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20 Home Remedies for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral disease that affects children under the age of ten. It is caused by the coxsackie virus. The virus spreads through contact with unwashed hands, surfaces contaminated with faeces, an infected person’s stool or respiratory fluids. The symptoms of this disease include fever, sore throat, tiredness, painful ulcers, sores on the inside of the mouth and tongue, and blisters or rashes on the hands, feet, buttocks, elbows, and on the back of the knees. This disease is self-limiting and goes away on its own within a week to ten days. It cannot be prevented by a vaccine or cured with medication. So, how to treat hand, foot and mouth disease? There are some home remedies that can help your child tackle the symptoms of this disease. Once your child heals, the chances of him contracting this disease will be rare, as his body will have developed immunity against this virus.
Natural Home Remedies to Treat Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in a Child
Some home remedies to treat hand, foot, and mouth disease are mentioned below:
1. Tender Coconut Water
Coconut water cools the body and is gentle on the stomach. It contains a wide range of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants. It also contains lauric acid, which fights viruses. Giving coconut water to a child with HFMD can provide him relief from the pain in his mouth and keep his body hydrated. You can also freeze coconut water and have your child chew on the frozen cubes to reduce the pain caused by mouth sores.
2. Oil Pulling
This is an old Ayurvedic method for maintaining good oral hygiene. It also helps soothe the mouth sores caused by HFMD. Take a tablespoon of any oil such as peanut, sesame or coconut, and ask your child to swish it around in his mouth for 5 to 10 minutes and then spit it out. Make sure that he does not swallow the oil after swishing.
Please Note: This remedy is suitable only for children above 2 years of age.
3. Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil contains Vitamins A, D, and E. It boosts body immunity and has antimicrobial properties. It is a good remedy for HFMD. It can be given to a child in the form of capsules or by mixing the oil in a juice or yoghurt.
4. Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb that belongs to the daisy family. It has antimicrobial properties. This herb boosts the immune system and reduces the symptoms of fever, cold, and other infections like HFMD. Echinacea can be consumed in the form of capsules or by boiling its leaves in water to make tea and adding honey to it.
5. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is a very good disinfectant and fights viruses. It also has calming and relaxing properties and can help your child sleep better. You can add a few drops of lavender oil in the bath water of your child or diffuse it in his room with an essential oil diffuser.
6. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil is another disinfectant. You can add a few drops of this oil to your child’s body wash to help him fight the virus and nourish his skin. You can also mix a few drops in a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply it on the rashes.
7. Liquorice Root
Liquorice root has antiviral and antimicrobial properties and has been used as a home remedy and in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for treating various viral and microbial infections. It contains a chemical called triterpenoid that boosts immunity. It also forms a thin layer of mucous on the insides of the throat and oesophagus, thus helping to soothe blisters. Boil some liquorice roots in water, strain it to make tea and add honey to it, then give it to your child. However, use it with caution as an overdose of liquorice can be harmful to him.
8. Salt Water Rinse and Baths
Ask your child to rinse his mouth with warm salt water three to four times a day, as it will provide him relief from painful blisters and mouth sores. You can use common table salt for this or Himalayan pink salt. Pink salt is more effective because it balances the pH level inside the mouth. Also, adding Epsom salts to his bath water can soothe the rashes on the body and help a child heal faster from the HFMD symptoms. You can also add a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil to the Epsom salt bath water, which can provide your child some relief.
Please Note: The mouth rinse remedy is suitable for big children only and NOT for babies and toddlers. For saltwater baths, please consult your doctor first to rule out the chances of any allergy.
9. Garlic
Garlic has strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiangiogenic properties that are known to treat several infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. It contains high levels of sulphur compounds. You can include garlic in your food, give it to your child in the form of capsules, or make a herbal tea by boiling 3 cloves of garlic in water and letting him drink it once it cools.
10. Elderberry
Elderberry is well known for its antioxidant properties that boost immunity and help improve resistance to diseases. It helps the body produce mucous to fight viruses. It increases the body’s temperature slightly, thus making it difficult for viruses to multiply and grow. Make an elderberry and honey syrup and give it to your little one frequently to help him heal faster from HFMD.
11. Ginger
Ginger contains several antiviral chemicals. It also has sedative and pain-relieving effects. Make ginger root tea by simmering crushed, chopped ginger in water until the water is concentrated with ginger juice. Cool this and give it to your child with honey.
12. Astralagus
Astralagus is a plant of the legume family and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. It is known for its immune-system-boosting properties. It stops viruses from multiplying in the body. You can buy astralagus ointments for topical application. You can also buy astralagus tea bags or make your own by simmering a teaspoon of grated astralagus root in water. Strain this and give this drink to your child after adding honey to soothe the symptoms of HFMD.
13. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that promote oral health. You can apply coconut oil to the parts of your child’s skin where he has rashes or blisters, and soon, they will disappear as coconut oil helps in smoothening the area and reduce itching. A 2016 research published in the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry found that coconut oil is as effective as chlorhexidine (a solution used to cleanse the skin and mouth of bacteria) in the reduction of Streptococcus mutans, which is the predominant microorganism found in dental plaque.
14. Indian Lilac or Neem
Neem or Indian Lilac has several antimicrobial properties and has been used to treat viral diseases for hundreds of years. You can apply neem oil to the rashes on your child’s body. You can also powder-dried neem leaves and make a paste of it with water. Apply this paste to the rashes and blisters for quick healing. You can even use neem oil combined with coconut oil or aloe vera gel, or a few drops of lavender oil for topical application.
15. Gooseberry
The Indian gooseberry or amla is rich in Vitamin C, an important vitamin necessary for immunity. It helps purify the blood and aids in digestion. Amla can be consumed in the form of juice. You can even give it to your child by making a powder from dried gooseberries and adding it to water. It can also be consumed in the form of fresh juice with mint and a little honey, though it may get difficult for babies to ingest it due to its sour and bitter taste.
Please Note: Honey must not be given to babies under the age of 1 as it can cause Listeria.
16. Pomegranate
Pomegranate contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds which help soothe the symptoms of HFMD. Let your child drink pomegranate juice or eat the fleshy seeds for quicker healing. You can also add a little black salt to it.
17. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains Vitamins B and C. It also contains a chemical called inulin which increases the white blood cell (WBC) count. WBCs help fight viruses in our bodies. Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in warm water and ask your child to gargle with it to soothe his throat. Remember to monitor your child when he is doing this process.
18. Calendula
Calendula is a herb belonging to the marigold family. These plants have antibacterial and antiviral properties. They also lower inflammation, quicken healing, and help maintain oral health. You can make tea from calendula petals, add honey to it, and give it to your child. You can also use calendula cream mixed in aloe vera gel or any other moisturising base to apply over the rashes to soothe them.
19. Holy Basil or Tulsi
Tulsi is a herb that has several medicinal properties. It fights harmful microbes, reduces inflammation, and provides relief from pain. Let your child chew on tulsi leaves, or make a juice of the leaves, dilute it with water, and ask him to drink it a few times a day for faster relief from HFMD.
20. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also increases immunity. Aloe vera contains minerals, vitamins, and several other compounds that are beneficial for the skin. Apply aloe vera gel to the rashes and blisters for soothing relief. You can even give aloe vera juice to your kid to help him heal faster from HFMD.
How to Prevent Catching Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Practising good hygiene goes a long way in keeping diseases at bay, and it’s the strongest defence your child can have against this disease too. Make sure your child washes his hands regularly and thoroughly with antibacterial soap, especially after he comes into contact with surfaces that can have germs on them. Your child should wash his hands before and after every meal, after playing outside, and mainly after using the washroom. It’s also equally important to keep your surroundings clean. Disinfect any area that your child regularly uses, especially if it’s a shared space. Similarly, make sure things like toys or pacifiers (things that your child can put into his mouth) are definitely cleaned and disinfected.
When to Seek Medical Help?
In most cases, hand, foot, and mouth illness usually clears up within a week. But if your little one is still feeling unwell after ten days, it is ideal to reach out to their paediatrician.
If you notice any of the following signs in your child, you should certainly get in touch with the doctor:
1. Your child isn’t drinking enough to stay properly hydrated
2. Your child’s immune system is weakened or compromised
3. The symptoms are really severe
4. If your child is quite young, especially if they’re just six months or younger
It’s always better to be safe and make sure your child gets the care they need.
FAQs
1. Will Honey Help to Treat Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Honey has been in use for the treatment of infected wounds for as long as 2,000 years, even before bacteria were discovered. Its antibacterial properties can help in treating the wounds from hand, foot, and mouth disease.
2. Which Ointment is Good for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
You could try using some 1% hydrocortisone ointment from the store, which might make things better for you. For a more natural approach, you can also apply things like petroleum jelly or zinc oxide ointment on the blisters at home – they could help speed up the healing process. However, it is best recommended to consult a doctor before treating your child with any medication.
3. What Will Be the Quarantine Period of HFMD?
Three to six days is the usual quarantine period for people dealing with hand, foot, and mouth disease, including children.
The symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease can make children very uncomfortable and irritable. The rashes and blisters can be very painful for the little ones. So, try these home remedies to soothe the symptoms and make your child as comfortable as possible.
References/Resources:
1. Prevent Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease; CDC; https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/prevention.html
2. Peedikayil. F. C, Sreenivasan. P, Narayanan. A; Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis – A preliminary report; Nigerian Medical Journal; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4382606/; March-April 2015
3. Astragalus; NIH; https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus
4. Peedikayil. F. C, Remy. V, John. S, Chandru TP, et al.; Comparison of antibacterial efficacy of coconut oil and chlorhexidine on Streptococcus mutans: An in vivo study; The Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5109859/; September-October 2016
5. How Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Spreads; CDC; https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/transmission.html
6. Gbinigie. O, Onakpoya. I, Spencer. E, et al.; Effect of oil pulling in promoting oro dental hygiene: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials; Complement Ther Med.; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261981/; June 2016
7. Silva. G. L, Luft. C, Lunardelli. A, et al.; Antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of lavender essential oil; An Acad Bras Cienc.; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26247152/; August 2015
8. Guerra. A. M, Orille. E, Waseem. M; Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease; In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; NIH; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431082/
9. Gakuya. D. W, Mulei. C. M, Wekesa. S. B; Use of ethnoveterinary remedies in the management of foot and mouth disease lesions in a diary herd; Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252696/; 2011
10. Arreola. R, Quintero-Fabián. S, López-Roa. R. I, et al.; Immunomodulation and anti-inflammatory effects of garlic compounds; Journal of Immunology Research; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4417560/; 2015
11. Wang. L, Yang. R, Yuan. B, Liu. Y, Liu. C; The antiviral and antimicrobial activities of licorice, a widely-used Chinese herb; Acta Pharm Sin B.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4629407/; July 2015
12. Vázquez. B, Avila. G, Segura. D, Escalante. B; Antiinflammatory activity of extracts from Aloe vera gel; J Ethnopharmacol.; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9121170/; December 1996
Also Read:
Home Remedies for Fever in Children
Effective Home Treatments for Chickenpox
Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies & Kids
Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers in Babies & Children
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Important Vaccinations for Children Above 1 Year
As a parent, you work hard to give your child the best of everything. You conduct thorough research on baby gates, infant car seats, and the latest developmental toys and books for your little one. On the health front, you have your pediatrician’s number on speed dial, the medicine or first aid box stocked up, and also ensure you don’t miss out on regular checkups and vaccination appointments. After all, vaccination is one of the best ways to protect our child against vaccine preventable diseases.
But many times, after first-year vaccinations, the second-year vaccinations and booster doses are not taken as per schedules. It may even be missed at times. It’s essential to know that vaccinations are recommended even beyond this age.
This article will look at the different vaccinations administered to children over a year old.
Why Is It Important to Vaccinate Children Above 1 Year of Age?
Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease. Baby’s immune system is continuing to be developed completely uptill 2 years of age. There are certain diseases that can still infect the baby in second year of life such as Meningococcal Disease, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Influenza. These are serious diseases which may lead to prolonged disabilities, take a financial toll due to medical bills, lost time at work or long-term disability care. For these diseases, vaccines are not covered in first year and hence its essential for parents to keep a track of vaccination schedule even after 1st birthday of the baby to protect the growth and future of the baby.
Apart from new vaccinations, to provide additional protection booster doses are required which should be given to babies second year onwards. For more information please do consult your paediatrician.
11 Important Vaccinations That Should Be Given to Children Above 1 Year
Diseases and vaccines that children above 1 year should receive:
Age of Vaccination
Disease
Brief
Route of Transmission
Symptoms
Vaccination Available *
12 months
Hepatitis A
Caused by Hepatitis A virus. It is highly contagious
Spreads through ingestion of contaminated food or water
Jaundice, dark-coloured urine, nausea, fatigue, stomach pain
Vaccination is available; consult doctor for schedule
15 months – first dose
Varicella / Chickenpox
Highly contagious, caused by varicella – zoster-virus. Life-threatening, especially in babies, adults, pregnant women
Spreads through direct contact with the infected individual
Rashes that turn into itchy, fluid-filled blisters and eventually turn in scabs
2 dose schedule is recommended
24 months
Meningococcal Disease
It is caused by Neisseria meningitidis, affects the meninges and is life-threatening if left untreated
Spreads through direct contact with respiratory secretions like saliva or mucus
0-8 hours symptoms are like the common cold and flu. It later progresses rapidly into a stiff neck, light sensitivity, fever, and nausea.
Single dose vaccine#
6 months – 5 years of age
Influenza
Caused by Swine Flu (H1N1) and 3 other flu strains
Air-borne disease
Cold, cough, fever, runny nose, itchy eyes, body ache
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended
9-12 years of age
Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (Tdap Vaccine)
Diphtheria is a respiratory disease
Tetanus causes the tightening of jaw muscles.
Pertussis is also known as whooping cough
Diphtheria and Pertussis are both air-borne diseases
Tetanus spreads when bacterial spores enter the body through deep cuts. Spores usually reside in soil, manure, iron rust, etc
Diphtheria – Fever, swollen neck, thick grey coating lining nose or throat
Pertussis – Cold, cough, mild fever, and difficulty in breathing
Tetanus – jaw cramping, muscle stiffness, seizures, fever and sweating
Tdap Vaccine – Tetanus toxoid and reduced quantity Diphtheria & Acellular Pertussis Vaccine
9 years onwards
Cervical Cancer
Cancer of the cervix caused due to Human Papillomavirus
Transmits via sexual intercourse or close skin contact with the infected
No tests / immediate symptoms
HPV screening is done after the age of 30 in females only. Some may develop genital warts.
2 dose schedule for girls 9-14 years of age
3 dose schedule for < 15-year-old girls
* – Information about Vaccination mentioned above is based on recommendations received from Health Experts. For any further information, please consult your infant’s paediatrician.
# – Meningococcal Vaccine (A, C, W, Y) can be given in 2 dose schedules below 1 year
List of booster vaccinations that are essential and provide additional protection to babies securing their healthy future:
Age of Vaccination
Disease
Brief
Route of Transmission
Symptoms
Vaccination Available *
15 months – second dose
Measles, Mumps & Rubella
Measles are small red spots on the entire skin, highly contagious
Mumps is swelling of salivary glands due to viral infection
Rubella is caused by a virus; pinkish rashes start appearing across the face and body
All 3 are air-borne diseases
Measles – small red spots breakout on the entire body with fever, headache
Mumps – Puffiness of neck, cheeks, eyes, and entire face due to swelling of salivary glands
Rubella – low-grade fever with rashes across the body
2 dose schedule is recommended
15 months – booster dose
Pneumococcal Disease
Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, can range from ear and sinus infections to pneumonia and bloodstream infections
Spreads through direct contact with respiratory secretions like saliva or mucus
Fever, cough, difficulty in breathing and chest pain
Vaccination available in a 3 + 1 booster dose schedule
16-18 months – booster dose
Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis
Diphtheria is a respiratory disease
Tetanus causes the tightening of jaw muscles.
Pertussis is also known as whooping cough
Diphtheria and Pertussis are both air-borne diseases
Tetanus spreads when bacterial spores enter the body through deep cuts. Spores usually reside in soil, manure, iron rust, etc
Diphtheria – Fever, swollen neck, thick grey coating lining nose or throat
Pertussis – Cold, cough, mild fever, and difficulty in breathing
Tetanus – jaw cramping, muscle stiffness, seizures, fever and sweating
Combination of 3 vaccines – DTP Vaccine is available. Recommended in a 3 + 1 booster dose schedule
16-18 months – booster dose
Hib: Hemophilus influenzae type B
Infects the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause a severe infection of the blood
Air-borne disease
Pneumonia, infection of blood or infection of meningitis (membrane covering the brain and spinal cord)
Recommended in a 3 + 1 booster dose schedule
16-18 months – IPV booster dose
Polio
Caused by Polio virus and can infect the spinal cord, limbs, or any part of the body. It may also cause paralysis.
Air-borne disease
Muscle tenderness, floppy and loose muscles, fever, sore throat, weakness fatigue
IPV is recommended in a 3 + 1 booster dose schedule
18 months – booster dose
Hepatitis A
Caused by Hepatitis A virus. It is highly contagious.
Spreads through ingestion of contaminated food or water
Jaundice, dark-coloured urine, nausea, fatigue, stomach pain
Vaccination is available. Consult a doctor for schedule
* – Information about Vaccination mentioned above is based on recommendations received from Health Experts. For any further information, please consult your infant’s paediatrician.
How to Prepare Your Child for Vaccination?
Talk to your child about vaccination in a manner suitable to their age and temperament.
Make sure to keep a positive tone and use simple sentences. Answer your child’s queries and explain what the vaccination is for
Prepare a special bag for your child to carry to the doctor’s clinic on vaccination day with their favourite toy or book. This will help them cope with the stress better in a new environment.
When Should Your Child Not Get Vaccinated?
There are a few situations where your child should wait or may not get vaccinated. These include:
Having suffered a bad reaction after the first vaccination dose
Being ill with something more severe than a cold
Having convulsions or sudden jerky body movements, which the vaccination could have possibly caused
In such cases, it’s essential to consult your paediatrician for any further information
After Vaccination Care for Children
Encourage your child to move the arm or leg where they received the injection
Place a cold cloth or ice pack on the injection site, and provide comfort to them.
Make sure your child takes adequate rest.
Since children need to be given different vaccinations, it is helpful to maintain a checklist of all the vaccinations that need to be administered and at which age. This will help you stay on schedule and keep your little one healthy and safe.
Please consult your infant’s paediatrician for any further information. To learn more about maintaining vaccination schedules, click here.
If you like this content, share it with your fellow parents now.
Disclaimer: Issued in public interest by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India.
Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your doctor for any medical queries, any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. The disease list indicated for vaccination is not complete, please consult your doctor for the complete vaccination schedule
NP-IN-ABX-OGM-220082, DoP Nov 2022
References:
https://www.myvaccinationhub.in/en/vaccination-schedule
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/visit/before-during-after-shots.html
https://www.hhs.gov/immunization/get-vaccinated/for-parents/five-reasons/index.html
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Important Baby Growth and Vaccination Milestones in 2nd Year of Life
Every child is special, and their growth journey is heart-warming for parents. The first year of a child is extremely precious since the baby starts recognising faces, starts blabbering, rolls over and grows in height and weight in these 12 months. It is also extremely essential for parents and guardians to keep track of their milestones in the second year of life and ensure the vaccination schedule is maintained.
Let’s dive deeper to understand further what are the various motor, sensory, communication and weight and height milestones for babies above 12 months. Also, let us know the important vaccinations in the second year of life that help protect your little munchkin’s growth!
What Are the Important Developmental Milestones & Key Vaccinations to Keep Track of a 2-year-old’s Health and Growth?
Milestones are the physical or behavioural checkpoints in children’s development as they grow. These are the key skills infants and toddlers should achieve around a certain age.
Age
Motor Milestones
Sensory & Communication Milestones
Vaccination*
Height & Weight Chart
15 months
· Starts taking a few steps on their own
· Uses fingers to feed food by themselves
· Can stack simple objects like blocks
· Looks at familiar objects when named
· Starts following gestures and words
· Points to ask for something or get help
· Copies others and claps when excited
· MMR – 2
· Varicella – 1
· PCV Booster
· Boys – 10.3 kg & 79.2 cm
· Girls – 9.5 kg & 77.5 cm
18 months
· Copies parents’ activities – like sweeping broom
· Plays with toys – pushes the car, picks up toys and puts them in a basket
· Starts walking without support
· Scribbles
· Tries using a spoon
· Looks at a few pages in a book
· Helps dressing by pushing the arm through a sleeve or lifting the foot
· Shows affection in the form of hugs and kisses
· IPV Booster
· DTP Booster
· Hib Booster
· Hepatitis A – 2^
· Boys – 10.9 kg & 82.3 cm
· Girls – 10.2 kg & 80.7 cm
24 months
· Kicks a ball
· Starts running
· Walks a few stairs with/without help
· Starts eating with a spoon
· Tries to use switches and knobs
· Uses both hands in co-ordination to play or perform activities
· Points to things when asked
· Starts making simple sentences
· Starts understanding body parts
· Uses more gestures and expressive eyes
· Notices when others’ emotions (upset, angry, happy)
· Looks at your face to see how you react in a new situation
· Meningococcal Vaccine (A, C, W, Y)#
· Boys – 12.7 kg & 90.6 cm
· Girls – 12.1 kg & 86 cm
* – Information about Vaccination mentioned above is based on recommendations received from Health Experts. For any further information, please consult your infant’s paediatrician.
IPV – Inactivated Polio Vaccine, DTP – Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, PCV – Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, Hib – Haemophilus influenzae type B
# – Meningococcal Vaccine (A, C, W, Y) can also be given as 2 doses below 1 year
^ – Hepatitis A Vaccine can be given as 1 or 2 dose schedule depending upon the brand used
It is important not to compare your baby with other kids. As long as they are growing steadily and are responsive and healthy, there’s no need to worry. However, one thing you may take care of is your child’s timely immunisation against vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccination helps protect your child from several infectious diseases, strengthens their immune system, and makes way for a safe and secure future.
To know further about baby growth charts, please consult your paediatrician.
You can check the vaccination schedule for your child and track their upcoming vaccinations on MyVaccinationHub.
If you like the content, please share it with fellow parents!
Disclaimer: Issued in public interest by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India.
Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your doctor for any medical queries, any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. The disease list indicated for vaccination is not complete, please consult your doctor for the complete vaccination schedule. Views/opinions expressed by the doctor are independent and not influenced in any way by any organization.
NP-IN-ABX-OGM-220076, DoP Feb 203
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/who_charts.htm
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/growth-charts.html
https://www.medicinenet.com/growth_charts/article.htm
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As ‘Zindagi Unlocks', Kids May Be at a Higher Risk of Contracting Hepatitis A: Be Prepared, and Vaccinate Them on Time
The pandemic has left children stuck at home for long, finding enjoyment only in e-learning, playing video games, using mobile phones and watching TV. There has been little opportunity for them to interact and play with friends outdoors. But life is gradually opening again, unlocking again. It’s a joyous time for kids especially as they are stepping out more now and indulging in activities important for their growth and well-being. While it’s wonderful to get back to life as we knew it, it’s extremely important for parents to keep an eye out for not just their safety from COVID-19 but also from other life-threatening diseases.
Going out for kids will also mean indulging in their favourite outside food. But this also means that there is an increased risk of food and water-borne diseases. One such disease is jaundice, commonly caused by the Hepatitis A virus, one that needs urgent attention.
Watch this video to know why.
What Is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection that is caused by the Hepatitis A virus1. Its severity can range from a mild to severe illness which can last from a few weeks to months. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally more than 10 crore people get infected with Hepatitis A every year2. While this liver infection is generally considered mild and common among children, it can be serious in some cases3. Among older children and adults, infection usually causes more severe symptoms, jaundice being one of them occurring in more than 70% of cases4.
Hepatitis A infections do not cause chronic infections; however, they can be severe5. If left unchecked, in some cases, it can lead to severe complications like acute liver failure and even death in rare cases. Outbreaks occur worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation6. Therefore children, who are not previously exposed to this virus because of living in more hygienic urban areas may evade Hepatitis A infection in early childhood leaving them at risk of severe infection in adolescence and adulthood.7
How Does It Spread?
Hepatitis A spreads through ingestion of water and food contaminated with the Hepatitis A virus. It is primarily transmitted from person to person by the faecal-oral route or when someone ingests contaminated water, or foods that have not been prepared, stored or served in a hygienic manner1.
Watch Out for These Signs and Symptoms
Not everyone who is infected has symptoms. Symptoms (if developed) usually appear within 2 to 6 weeks after infection1. They can include:
Fever
Vomiting
Grey-coloured stools
Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Joint pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Jaundice
Remember, not everyone who is infected will show all the symptoms. In few cases, symptoms can last for as long as 6 months.1
Can It Be Prevented?
Yes, Hepatitis A infection can be prevented. The easiest ways to protect against hepatitis A are by1,2.
Drinking clean water and cooking food well. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid raw meat and shellfish, and wash fruits and vegetables in clean water.
Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing a baby’s nappy and before cooking food and eating.
Ensuring a hygienic environment in and around your home.
Vaccination. This helps to protect your child against Hepatitis A.
Treatment for Hepatitis A
There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A and hence it is wise to prevent the disease by taking preventive measures. Vaccination is a reliable way to prevent Hepatitis A1-2.
When Can Hepatitis A Vaccination Be Given?
Vaccination against Hepatitis A can be given to children aged one year and above. Therefore, global and national health authorities like WHO and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommend Hepatitis A vaccination to all eligible children 2,7.
Consult Your Pediatrician for More Information
With this much-needed awareness around Hepatitis A, parents should seek the help of their doctors regarding prevention through vaccination to protect their kids.
As ‘Zindagi unlocks’, collective awareness, getting the right guidance, following precautions and health measures like vaccination, can keep children healthy and disease-free.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/Hepatitis A/afaq.html, Accessed on 24 th July 2021
https://www.who.int/immunization/position_papers/PP_hep_A_july2012_summary.pdf,
Accessed on 24th July 2021
Castaneda D, Gonzalez AJ, Alomari M, Tandon K, Zervos XB. From hepatitis A to E: A critical review of viral hepatitis. World J Gastroenterol. 2021;27(16):1691-1715
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/hepa.html, Accessed on 24th July 2021
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-a, Accessed on 24th July 2021
https://www.iamat.org /country/india/risk/hepatitis-a, Accessed on 24th July 2021
IAP-GUIDE-BOOK-ON-IMMUNIZATION-18-19.pdf (iapindia.org), Accessed on 29th July 2021
Disclaimer: Issued in public interest by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India. Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your physician for medical queries, if any, or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. Please consult your Pediatrician for the complete list of Vaccine-preventable diseases and the complete vaccination schedule for each disease. Please report adverse events with any GSK product to the company at india.pharmacovigilance@gsk.com.
This article has been produced on behalf of GSK by Times Internet’s Spotlight team. CL NO– NP-IN-HAV-PINF-210001, DOP- October, 2021
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14 Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers in Babies & Kids
Mouth ulcers or canker sores are white spots or sores surrounded by a reddish, inflamed area that appear on the inside of the lips, gums, and even tongue. They are painful and can make it very difficult for you to talk and chew. If your child has canker sores, it must be hard to see him in pain. While it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, there are some known home remedies for mouth ulcers to soothe his pain. Thankfully, mouth ulcers are not contagious and can be treated at home with simple home remedies. In this article, we’ll explore a few home remedies for mouth ulcers in babies and toddlers to provide them relief and bring back their cute smiles.
14 Best Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers in Infants & Toddlers
Mouth ulcers can occur in children due to a number of reasons, such as stress, injury, vitamin and mineral deficiency like vitamin B12, folic, and iron, body heat or even food allergies. It can be easily cured with these effective home remedies.
1. Honey
If your child is above the age of one year, you can use honey to treat mouth ulcers. Apply it to the affected area a few times. Honey has great anti-microbial properties, which will heal the sores quickly.
Please Note: Do not give honey to your child if he or she is below one year of age, as it can cause botulism (a life-threatening food poisoning caused by Clostridium botulinum).
2. Turmeric
A staple in most households, turmeric can be used to treat mouth ulcers in children. Its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties heal all sorts of wounds and cuts. To make the application easier, mix it with honey.
3. Coconut
Coconut is another staple item in all Indian households, and it comes in handy in treating canker sores. You can either give your child coconut water to drink or make him gargle with coconut milk. If you don’t have these at home, you can simply apply virgin coconut oil on the sores. However, do not use coconut oil for your baby if he is younger than 1 year of age as the scientific research on the efficacy of coconut oil in babies in still underway.
4. Curd
Curd and buttermilk are great remedies for mouth ulcers in children. Make your child swirl either curd or buttermilk in his mouth. Curd is a great remedy because the friendly bacteria in it help fight harmful germs and keep fungal infections at bay.
5. Holy Basil
Chewing basil leaves (tulsi) is another great remedy for mouth ulcers. The leaves contain medicinal properties and can cure the ulcer in a jiffy. Tulsi leaves should be chewed along with warm water twice a day for them to show results soon.
6. Ghee
Another derivative of milk, ghee, is one of the top home remedies for canker sores in toddlers. It can work wonders in healing mouth ulcers. You need to apply the ghee on the affected area at least three times a day for best results. Doing this will help the sores heal faster and provide relief to your child. If she doesn’t like the taste of ghee, you can give clarified butter (preferably homemade and unsalted) instead.
7. Aloe Vera
Another famous household remedy, aloe vera, is a great choice to heal mouth ulcers in children too. The leaf – gel provides relief from the pain, and its antibacterial and healing properties contribute towards the health of the gums. You can either apply the gel on the affected area or mix it with water and use it as a rinse thrice a day for great results. If you choose the latter option, then make sure to use cold water to mix the gel with – this provides relief from the pain, and the kids will enjoy it too. However, this remedy is used in the wrong way mostly, so it should be tried only if the child is old. And do try this remedy only after consulting with your doctor.
8. Liquorice
You can soak a tablespoon of liquorice root in 2 cups of water and make your child gargle the water a few times a day in order to heal the mouth ulcer. If you have the root in the powdered form, then the best option would be to mix it with a little bit of turmeric or honey and then apply it over the affected area. The liquorice will act as a demulcent, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the pain and swelling around the ulcer. Even if you apply it when the mouth ulcer is at its most potent, you will see instant results – the open lesions become relaxed, and the red colour decreases. However, this remedy should be tried only for older kids.
9. Ice Cream
Cold foods can soothe your child’s ulcer pain. Toddlers can eat ice cream for instant relief. Ice cream is a medicine that your child will never say no to.
10. Saltwater
Prepare a solution by mixing salt or baking soda with a glass of water. Tell your child to rinse her mouth with this solution and then spit it out. However, make sure that your child doesn’t swallow the mouthwash.
11. Curry Leaves
As curry leaves possess antibacterial and antifungal properties, chewing on a spoonful of these leaves can help cure your child’s mouth ulcers.
12. Coriander Seeds
Coriander seed-infused water is another great remedy that helps cool the body down and reduce the chances of mouth ulcers. You can boil one teaspoon of coriander seeds in one cup of water, and strain the seeds away to cool down the water. This cooled water can be given to babies older than 6 months to drink in small amounts or gargle 3-4 times a day.
13. Fresh Juice
Hydration is the enemy of mouth ulcers. If your little one is hydrated properly, mouth ulcers will always stay clear. Make sure your little ball of wonder is always hydrated with breast milk (for babies and toddlers) and water, fresh juices and milkshakes (for babies 6 months and above). Fresh juices can be given to babies which is a tasty twist to plain water.
14. Papaya
Ripe papaya can also help provide relief from sore ulcers in the mouth as it has antibacterial properties and fights bacterial infections.
In most cases, mouth ulcers reduce and disappear without leaving any long-lasting effects on children. These remedies for sores in a child’s mouth can speed up your child’s recovery and lower his chances of getting ulcers in the future. It’s best to consult the paediatrician if the problem persists for more than a week.
References/Resources:
1. Shanbhag. V. K; Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene – A review; J Tradit Complement Med.;PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198813/?report=classic; June 2016
2. Cohen. M. M; Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons; J Ayurveda Integr Med.; PubMed Centra;; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/?report=classic; October-December 2014
3. Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers); Nemours KidsHealth; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/canker.html
4. Mouth Ulcers; Childrens Hospital Colorado; https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/conditions-and-symptoms/symptoms/mouth-ulcers/
5. Abdulla. C. O, Ayubi. A, Zulfiquer. F, Santhanam. G, Ahmed. M. A, Deeb. J; Infant botulism following honey ingestion; BMJ Case Rep.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3448763/?report=classic; September 2012
6. When Your Child Has Mouth Sores; Saint Lukes; https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/when-your-child-has-mouth-sores
Also Read:
Safe Home Remedies for Cough in Children
Home Remedies for Cold and Flu in Babies & Kids
Home Remedies for Runny Nose in Babies and Children
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10 Home Remedies for Stomach Pain in Toddlers
Kids have stomach pain every now and then. This is because they tend to eat anything at any time. They are often so busy playing and having fun that they forget to think of the hygiene part and eat food using their dirty hands. But besides the hygiene part, there are several other reasons which can lead to stomach ache in toddlers. The good thing is that it can be treated with some simple home remedies. Thanks to our old grannies, we have received some of the most effective natural remedies for stomach ache that can provide relief to your tot in no time. Today in this article, we talk about stomach pain in toddlers home remedies in a very simpler way!
Video: 8 Home Remedies for Stomach Pain in Toddlers
Natural Remedies for Stomach Ache in Toddlers
If you have experienced sleepless nights because your child complains of tummy pain, then don’t worry. Here are some remedies for stomach pain in toddlers. These remedies will cure his stomach pain, and soon he will feel better.
1. Keep Your Child Hydrated.
Offer any unsweetened form of tea, like mint or ginger ale tea, to your child to keep him hydrated. This will soothe the aching nerves of his stomach and help lower his stomach pain. Avoid giving him dairy products or fried/oily products until he feels better. You can give him toast or oatmeal when he feels hungry. If his stomach pain is accompanied by vomiting, do not feed him any solids; let him be on a liquid diet until the pain subsides.
2. Try a Warm Compress.
One of the safest and most effective remedies for stomach aches is a warm compress. The best thing about warm compress is that it does not have any side effects, and it provides quick relief. If you are using a heating pad, select the lowest level of heat and keep it on your child’s abdomen. But don’t place it directly. If you don’t have a heating pad, use a bottle filled with warm water; wrap it in a cloth, and your warm compress is ready. Make sure that the heating pad or the water bottle you use is warm and NOT hot. You don’t want to hurt your child. A warm compress is very effective. The heat will relax his muscles and provide relief from stomach pain.
3. Apply Asafoetida Paste.
Asafoetida or hing is also an effective remedy for stomach pain in toddlers. It eases stomach pain by aiding the release of gases from the body. Mix some hing powder in water to make a paste and apply it around the child’s belly button. Ensure that he is lying in a horizontal position while you do so to make sure that the paste does not enter the navel. Mixing hing powder with olive oil and massaging the baby’s abdominal area with it for some time can also provide him with quick relief.
4. Make Him Eat Yoghurt and Other Probiotic Foods.
Probiotic foods are also known to help soothe stomach pain. For example, yoghurt, which has probiotics in it, can provide relief from diarrhoea and cramps. Yoghurt is also full of good bacteria, which compensates for the loss of microbes in the gut. Fenugreek seeds also help treat stomach pain in toddlers. Grind a handful of fenugreek seeds, add in the yoghurt, and give it to your child if he has stomach pain. Instead of giving him any heavy food, give him khichdi or plain rice. Khichdi is light on the tummy and will soothe your child’s upset tummy.
5. Offer Herbal Teas.
Herbal teas can also are known to soothe tummy aches in toddlers. Grate some ginger and let it soak in warm water for some time. Then strain and give it to your child if he is two years or above. If he is below two years of age, you can apply ginger juice around his navel area. You can also give him a cup of tea with a few mint leaves and a few drops of lemon juice in it, as it helps ease stomach pain. Mint can help remove harmful bacteria from the gut, while lemon can help with constipation. However, before giving herbal teas to your child, do consult with a doctor.
6. Give Him Honey.
Honey is a good source of carbohydrates, sugars, and antioxidants. It can be given to babies by adding it to herbal teas or in warm water. Kids also love eating it simply. However, do not feed honey to your child if he is younger than 2 years.
7. Massage Him Gently.
The aching nerves and muscles of the stomach area can be relieved by enhancing the blood circulation around it and this can be easily achieved by giving a gentle massage. Using your palms and fingers, gently massage in circular motions in the clockwise direction around the navel area of your child. Massaging from the chin downwards to the lower portion of the abdomen can also provide relief.
8. Try Foot Reflexology.
There are many nerves in our hands and feet which, when pressed lightly, can have a therapeutic effect on specific areas of the body. Hold your child’s left foot with the palm of your right hand. With your left hand under the ball of his foot, apply steady pressure using your thumb. Apply pressure on the central arch of his left foot for a minute and repeat this 4-5 times. Do this before mealtime for an immediate effect.
9. Get Him Moving.
Although it is not a home remedy, it can help. Any action that can help stimulate the gastrointestinal tract is recommended if your child complains of a stomach ache. Moderate activities like walking and running without any twisting or turning can provide relief to your little one’s stomach.
10. Try the BRAT Diet.
If you are a parent to a toddler, you must be aware of the BRAT diet. However, if you aren’t, then find out what it is because it can provide relief from an upset stomach. Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT) diet can provide your kiddo much relief if he has diarrhoea. These foods do not contain any spices, hence won’t aggravate the condition. Furthermore, this bland diet is perfect for kids when they are sick and want something to eat that agrees with their taste buds.
How to Prevent Stomach Ache in Toddlers?
If your child constantly complains of stomach pain, you should not ignore it. There must be something wrong in his diet, and you need to remedy it. Here are some tips that you can follow to prevent this problem.
If your child has a stomach ache because of constipation, include fibrous foods in his diet.
Do not overfeed your child. Instead of giving him three big meals, let him have small frequent meals.
Encourage the habit of washing hands before eating right from an early age in your toddler as it will prevent your child from contracting bacterial infections.
Don’t make him eat before bedtime as it could lead to indigestion.
Stomach ache is a common problem in kids. If your tot has a stomach ache, make him lie down on the bed in a comfortable position. Lie down next to him and read out his favourite stories to divert his attention. You can also try the remedies mentioned above to provide him relief from stomach pain. However, if these remedies fail to work and your child is unable to move, or the pain is accompanied by a fever, take him to a doctor and seek medical attention at the earliest.
Also Read: How to Deal With a Gas Problem In Toddlers
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10 Home Remedies for Constipation in Toddlers
Constipation is a common problem in children. If you have just introduced solid food to your child, then it will take his tummy some time to adjust to that food. Your little tot may not poop for days and if he does, his poop might be too hard. He may even lose his appetite. All these signs indicate constipation. If your child is constipated, you will obviously try to figure out what you can do to make him feel better. If you are considering giving over-the-counter medicines, then don’t, because doctors don’t recommend over-the-counter medicines to toddlers. You can always opt for home remedies – home remedies are safe and will provide your child with immediate relief, so go ahead try these home remedies for toddler constipation.
10 Natural Remedies for Constipation in Toddlers
Using natural remedies as a first-line treatment is often recommended. So try these home remedies to relieve constipation in toddlers. Find some great toddler constipation instant relief home remedies below.
1. Give him lemon juice
Lemon juice works as a great remedy for constipation in babies and toddlers. Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which helps pull water into the gut. When the water content increases in the gut, it helps soften the stools and stimulate bowel movements. Mix the juice of half a lemon in a glass of warm water, add honey to it and give it to your child. Ideally, it should be consumed early in the morning on an empty stomach. Drinking it in the morning will stimulate your child’s bowel movement and help ease constipation. Apart from lemon juice, you can also give prune juice and apple juice to your toddler if he is suffering from constipation.
2. Try triphala
Triphala, as the name suggests, is a combination of three medicinal herbs. These are amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Triphala has multiple benefits and it is usually consumed with milk. Add a spoonful of triphala to warm milk and give it to your child before bedtime. It is the best herbal remedy for constipation. This is one of the most popular Indian home remedies for constipation in toddlers.
3. Water is always the best choice!
This may seem like a no-brainer but sometimes parents fail to track whether their children are drinking enough water or not. Water is extremely important for ensuring proper digestion and passage of food through the intestinal tract. Drinking adequate water also prevents stool from being dry. So make sure that your child stays hydrated.
4. How about some honey and flax seeds?
Honey helps strengthen the immune system and aids the digestive system as well. Add 1-2 spoonfuls of honey to a glass of milk and give it to your child on an empty stomach. Flax seeds too can help treat constipation. Boil some flax seeds in water for some time, then strain and give this water to your child. This will prevent constipation.
5. Let him exercise and take a warm bath
An absence of physical activity results in digestion problem and reduced metabolism, which furthers the symptoms of constipation. Keeping your toddler busy in some kind of physical activity every day will stimulate his bowel movements. Make sure your child plays outdoors for at least an hour every day. To provide him relief from constipation, you can also give him a warm bath. Add a few spoons of baking soda in his bathwater and let your child relax in it for ten to fifteen minutes.
6. Include fibrous foods in his diet
Consuming fruits and vegetables that have a substantial amount of fibre in them aids bowel movements. If rice cereal is a part of your child’s diet, replace it with barley cereal. Along with barley cereal, you can also give a fruit juice to your tot, this will provide him relief from constipation. You should also include vegetables like beans, spinach, sweet potato, and broccoli, and fruits like oranges and apricots in your child’s diet to keep constipation at bay. You can also give corn syrup to your child as it contains sugar-based proteins. These proteins also play a key role in stimulating the bowel movements in a child.
7. Give him blackberries
Blackberry is highly useful in the stimulation of peristaltic movement. These are involuntary movements in the digestive tract that occur in waves and help in pushing the food forward. This helps reset the bowel movement to a regular routine and aid in the passing of poop. Consuming blackberry by diluting it with water on an empty stomach helps in getting the desired result.
8. Give a mixture of banana and hot water
This is quite a popular remedy for constipation. Combining banana with hot water, and consuming it first thing in the morning, is known to aid digestion, which in turn, helps relieve the problem of constipation.
9. Milk of magnesia works too!
Many people also use milk of magnesia to treat constipation as it a form of laxative. It primarily functions by pushing water into the intestines, which triggers the bowel movements. But this is used for a short duration only. You can mix a spoonful of the powder with milk and feed it to your child. But try this remedy only after consulting with your child’s paediatrician.
10. Probiotic Power
Consider adding a sprinkle of probiotics to your toddler’s routine. These friendly bacteria can work their magic in promoting a healthy gut and regulating bowel movements. Check with your pediatrician for age-appropriate probiotic options that can help your little one say goodbye to constipation.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you try a natural remedy for a day or two and it does not show desired results then consult your doctor immediately. Furthermore, if your child is constipated for more than two weeks, seek medical help.
FAQs
1. How Will You Know That Your Toddler is Constipated?
If your child has a bowel movement fewer than three times a week, then it is a sign of constipation. Some other symptoms of constipation include stomach ache, nausea, loss of appetite, and bloating. If your child cries or screams while pooping, then he might be having a hard time pooping, and no doubt, it is a sign that he is constipated.
2. Should You Administer Enema for Constipation?
If your child has failed to have bowel movements for many days, he must be in pain. In such a situation, you might want to resort to artificial medicines to stimulate his bowel movements. You can administer enema but only after consulting with a doctor. The enema should be administered at night so that it ends up lubricating the area around the rectum and makes the process of passing stools easier. Ideally, coconut oil should be used for enema as it triggers the intestines and stimulates the bowel movement. But enema should be used as a last resort and only after consulting with a doctor. Do NOT try to administer enema to your child on your own and without supervision.
3. Is There Any Instant Relief For Constipation In Toddlers?
Oh, the woes of constipation in toddlers! While there may not be an instant magical cure, there are a few things you can try to bring some relief to your little one’s tummy trouble. First off, you can offer foods that are known to be natural stool softeners, like prunes, pears, and apples. These fiber-filled gems can work their magic over time and help get things moving along. Another trick up your sleeve is to encourage your toddler to stay hydrated. A well-hydrated body is a happy digestive system, so make sure those sippy cups are filled with water throughout the day. Lastly, gentle belly massages and physical activity, like a silly dance party or a game of toddler-friendly tag, can help stimulate the bowels. Remember, patience is key, and consulting with your child’s healthcare provider is always a good idea when it comes to finding the best solutions for constipation relief.
4. What Type Of Foods Should A Constipated Toddler Avoid?
When it comes to constipation, there are a few foods that might need to take a temporary vacation from your constipated toddler’s plate. While it’s important to focus on the foods that help get things moving, it’s also good to know which ones can be a little less friendly to those tiny tummies. So, say “see you later” to processed snacks that are low in fibre and high in sugar, like those tempting cookies and chips. It’s time to bid farewell to those refined grains, such as white bread and pasta, and wave goodbye to excessive dairy products. These culprits can sometimes contribute to constipation, so it’s best to keep them off the menu for a while. Instead, opt for fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that can help keep things running smoothly. Your toddler’s tummy will thank you!
Natural remedies and foods for toddler constipation provide relief and aid digestion. So try these remedies for your child – he will be fine in a couple of days. However, if these remedies fail to work, do consult a doctor. But prevention is always better than cure. So try to prevent constipation by including healthy and fibrous foods in your child’s diet. Also, make sure that he indulges in some kind of physical activity daily and stays hydrated! Take preventive measures, and your little one won’t complain of constipation at all! What helps toddlers with constipation is a dynamic journey and you just need to have patience!
References/Resources:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Constipation in Children: Home Remedies and When to Seek Help. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation-in-children/in-depth/constipation-in-children/art-20043938
2.American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Constipation in Children. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/Pages/Constipation.aspx
3.National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Constipation in Children. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation-children
4. Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Constipation in Children. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17785-constipation-in-children
5. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (2021). Management of Functional Constipation in Children: Challenges and Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774595/
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