Question

What therapeutic methods are available for children with a cold and runny nose?

Answer

When children have a cold with a runny nose, certain therapeutic diet methods can be adopted to help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. Firstly, since the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract is weakened during a cold, it’s advisable to reduce food intake to lighten the burden on the stomach and intestines. Additionally, maintaining adequate water intake is crucial; you can include light and easy-to-digest foods in the diet, such as congee, clear soups, and fruits, among others. If the child experiences vomiting or diarrhea, it’s important to pay attention to the replenishment of water and electrolytes; in necessary cases, intravenous fluid administration can be used to replenish fluids. For severe cases, such as when the child shows signs of listlessness or drowsiness, immediate medical attention should be sought for blood tests, and treatment should be administered according to the test results. Moreover, it is not recommended to self-administer anti-diarrheal medications to avoid the entry of viral toxins into the bloodstream, which may lead to the occurrence of sepsis.