Question
My child has been suffering from a runny nose and cough recently. Do I need to give them antibiotics?
Answer
Based on the description, the child may be experiencing symptoms of a viral cold. Viral colds are usually self-limiting and can be relieved through adequate hydration, rest, and a light diet. In such cases, it’s not recommended to start with antibiotics (anti-inflammatory medication) right away, as they are ineffective against viral infections. If the cough is frequent, you might consider using over-the-counter cold medications to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, to prevent infections and boost immunity, consider methods like ensuring sufficient intake of vitamin D and zinc. For more severe symptoms such as a persistent cough, headache, and fever, it’s advisable to take your child to a doctor promptly for a professional diagnosis and treatment recommendations. When treating a cough, you can use expectorants and cough suppressants such as Sanao Soup combined with dephlegmating medications to relieve coughing and breathing difficulties. However, always ensure that any medication given to a child is under medical guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.