Phlegm in toddlers is a very common problem and is indicative of an irritant in the respiratory system. In most cases, the excessive accumulation of phlegm is caused by a bacterial infection. Since children have lower immunity levels, respiratory problems in an infant are not uncommon.
There are several home remedies for phlegm that you can use in order to get rid of this condition. However, it is also important to determine the root cause of the problem and treat it so as to prevent re-infection. The color and consistency of the toddler's phlegm is a good indicator as to the cause of the problem. Thick yellow mucus is a definite indicator of infection. This is because when any harmful bacteria enter the body, the body responds by sending white blood cells to the area in order to get rid of the pathogen. During the process of fighting off the infection, many white blood cells die and this is what gives the phlegm a very distinct color. Thickened mucus also indicates congestion which in itself is a problem as it restricts breathing. Watery phlegm that is transparent generally indicates a non-infectious irritant. This is very commonly seen in toddlers that are exposed to high levels of pollution. Once you have determined the cause of the condition, you can take steps to treat and prevent it.
Home remedies for phlegm in toddlers would include hot liquids in the form of broth and soup. Protein is very important as this stage as it helps to boost the immune system. You can make a thick chicken broth using skinless chicken to ensure that your child has an adequate intake of both protein and water. If the child has trouble swallowing, you can cook the chicken and then blend it before you add it to the soup. Encourage your toddler to have plenty of warm fluids throughout the day as this will help to keep the mucus free-flowing so that it can be easily expelled. ginger is a very effective home remedy. Chop a small piece of ginger and mix it with a few spoons of honey. Give your child a spoonful of this mixture every two hours or so as this will help to get rid of excess phlegm. However, make sure that the honey you use is processed as raw honey is not advisable for infants and small children. This is because it can cause a very serious paralytic condition known as botulism.
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