Question
A 14-month-old baby has phlegm in the throat and a lot of mucus in the nose. The mucus is not clear and cannot be easily discharged. The baby’s nostrils are dry, and the breath is very hot. What should I do?
Answer
The baby may be suffering from a pediatric upper respiratory infection, indicated by coughing, which suggests inflammation in the throat or airways. Immediate anti-inflammatory and antiviral treatment is necessary to prevent the inflammation from spreading upwards, leading to severe complications. Given the season, it is most likely caused by the flu virus. Treatment should be based on antiviral therapy, and the use of azithromycin can enhance effectiveness; for babies with severe coughing, expectorant and cough-suppressing medications like orange-red phlegm cough syrup can be administered; when fever occurs, physical cooling methods should be used, and fever-reducing medication may be necessary to lower body temperature. The baby should also rest and drink plenty of fluids.