In the majority of cases, treatment for respiratory infection in children is supportive care, as most of these types of infection are viral in nature. Children’s versions of medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to help reduce fever and ease pain, and older children may be able to take other over-the-counter drugs like decongestants or cough suppressants. Treatments like a cool-mist humidifier, nasal saline drops, or a steamy shower may also be used to relieve children’s symptoms, particularly if they are too young for medication. They should also get plenty of rest, eat healthy food, and drink plenty of fluids. In severe cases, doctors may need to administer certain drugs like bronchodilators, corticosteroids, or antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, and a child may need hospitalization if he or she cannot breathe.
Though they will not cure the disease, medications can often be used for treatment of respiratory infection in children to relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Children with fever, headache, or body aches can typically take children’s NSAIDs or acetaminophen to get some relief. Parents may also want to try non-prescription decongestants or cough suppressants, though they are generally only for older children, and it may be best to get a doctor’s recommendation first.
For younger children who should not be given certain medications, home treatments can also help. Running a cool mist humidifier in the child’s room can help ease congestion, as can using nasal saline drops; for infants, a bulb syringe may be needed to remove mucus from the nose. Children with a croupy cough might find relief from a steamy shower or being taken outside in cold air.
It is also important during treatment of a respiratory infection in children to ensure their bodies are helped to fight off the illness. They may become dehydrated easily and should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, as well as eat healthy foods to boost their immune systems. Getting plenty of rest is also critical to getting better.
Sometimes home care of a respiratory infection in children is not enough, and the parent should seek treatment from a medical professional. If the child is getting progressively worse, or having difficulty breathing, he or she may need hospitalization to receive oxygen or fluids. Severe inflammation from diseases like bronchitis may need treatment with bronchodilators or corticosteroids. Viral infections with complications from a bacterial infection or bacterial pneumonia may require administration of antibiotics.
