New Baby, New Germs

When welcoming a new baby into the world, many parents are prepared for little sleep and lots of diaper changes, but something that can come as a bit of a shock is sickness. As the immune system develops, kids can experience as many as 12 colds a year, various rashes, allergies, viral and bacterial infections, and more severe ailments. Having the proper medication from the pharmacy on hand can help treat the symptoms of various childhood ailments.

The common cold

A runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, mild cough, and low-grade fever are all signs of the common cold. A cold can be extremely bothersome for babies who haven’t figured out how to blow the nose. With the exception of fever reducers, most cough and cold medications are not recommended for babies. However, other remedies exist. A cool mist humidifier can help to decrease congestion, allowing babies to get a better night’s sleep. Saline nasal sprays containing salt water are another great way to make breathing easier. A bulb syringe can also help clear the nasal passage without the need for any medication. Honey can soothe the throat but should only be given to babies over 1 year of age.

Treating pink eye

Also known as conjunctivitis, pink eye is a common childhood ailment often caused by a viral infection. The most common symptoms are redness, itchiness, and discharge in the eyes. In some cases, antibiotic eye drops are required, but at other times, an over-the-counter (OTC) option can help relieve symptoms. Lubricating or artificial tear eye drops can help with itchiness. Ask a pharmacist for tips and tricks to successfully get the drop into the child’s eye.

What’s that rash?

Heat rash, eczema, hand, foot, and mouth disease, chickenpox, slapped cheek, allergic reactions, and measles can all cause a rash to develop. A doctor should always be consulted to determine the cause of the rash and the best treatment approach. However, OTC options can offer relief. Topical corticosteroids can treat redness, itching, and swelling. Topical emollients can also help add moisture to the skin, soothing the affected area.

The dreaded stomach bug

Throwing up is never fun, and that is especially true for young children. When gastroenteritis strikes, an oral rehydration solution can help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Outside the pharmacy aisle, certain foods can help during recovery. The BRAT diet, composed of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can keep the belly happy post-stomach bug.

Pediatric OTC solutions

Having a sick kid is never fun, but solutions exist. A pharmacy is a great place to purchase effective medications that can provide symptomatic relief. From creams for rashes to eye drops for pink eye, some common childhood ailments can be treated with OTC drugs.