A barky cough. A scratchy throat. A stuffy nose.
Children come down with an average of 7-10 colds each year; that can mean a lot of stuffed-up noses for kids, and sleepless nights for both kids and their parents. While there is no cure for the common cold, there are things parents and caregivers can do to make children -- and themselves -- feel better.
Using a humidifier is definitely one of them.
Along with plenty of rest, fluids and even a bowl of chicken noodle soup, using a humidifier can help make your child more comfortable during the winter months, and throughout the year.
The Importance of Moisture in the Air
Even before respiratory illnesses set in, cold temperatures mean dry, heated indoor air. Without adequate humidity indoors, the thirsty air can actually absorb moisture from your skin causing it to feel tight, crack, flake and itch -- resulting in more stuffy, crusty noses and scratchy throats. Even your plants and furniture may feel its drying effect. By running a vaporizer or humidifier in your home, moisture can safely and effectively be returned to the air to help alleviate these irritating symptoms.
Running a humidifier in your child’s bedroom at night can help loosen congestion and help her to sleep better. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology generally recommends using a humidifier to keep the moisture in your home high during the dry winter months.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Humidifier
• Time for a Change. Refill the water in the tank each day to keep it cleaned and full. While tap water is certainly effective, using distilled water can reduce deposits that can build up in some humidifiers.
• Keep Things Clean. Remember to rinse the tank daily and follow manufacturer’s instructions regarding cleaning to insure that the humidifier stays free of mold or bacteria. Cleaning accessories are now available that help keep your humidifier cleaner, longer.
• Safe-Keeping. Humidifiers should be placed relatively close to children in their bedrooms for maximum effect, but not so close that they are within the child’s reach.
• Don’t Over-Moisturize. Moisture in the air is good, but too much isn’t. If you start to see condensation on the windows or the air feels damp, it’s time to turn your moisturizing efforts down a notch.
• Enhance Your Efforts By Adding Menthol. Adding menthol treatments to your moisturizing efforts can not only bring back that special aroma from your own childhood, but may also help to relieve your child’s congestion and cold symptoms.
Remember that using a humidifier is a reliable way to offer your child some much-needed relief. When sickness strikes, be sure to also offer lots of liquids, use saline drops to clear nasal congestion when necessary and try keeping your child’s head elevated during sleep. These tips and, of course, the love of the parent, will help make those times of illness brighter and more comfortable for both you and your child.
© 2007, Dr. Laura Jana, M.D., FAAP