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Paracetamol Dosage for Children - A Guide for Parents
It is common practice to take a dose of paracetamol as a quick relief method for fever, headache or other pain. Most parents carry on this practice for their children when they have a temperature or complain of minor pain. But, before you can administer paracetamol to children, it is best to understand the appropriate dosage for kids. It is also ideal to get approval from your child’s doctor before you give paracetamol to your child.
Is Paracetamol Safe for Children?
When used in the right dosage, paracetamol is considered safe for children. Many doctors also prefer prescribing the medicine as a treatment for fever or pain.
When and How Often Should You Give Paracetamol to Your Child?
You can give paracetamol to your child if he has fever, headaches, and aches in the body. Fever caused due to a shot may also be reduced with a dose of paracetamol.
The right dosage of medicine can be given to your child once in every four to six hours, up to four times within 24 hours. Under no circumstances should you exceed the recommended dosage. If your child does not respond to the medicine, consult a doctor for a further course of treatment.
How to Give Paracetamol to Your Child?
Paracetamol is available in the form of tablets, syrups or suppositories, which are each taken differently.
1. Syrups
Shake the bottle well and pour out the right dosage with the spoon, cup or syringe that comes with it. In case there isn’t a spoon, ask the pharmacist for a measuring spoon. Never use a normal spoon to measure out the syrup, as you will miss the right dosage.
2. Tablets
Paracetamol tablets should be swallowed whole with water, milk or juice. They shouldn’t be chewed.
3. Suppositories
Suppositories are small plugs of the medicine that are designed to be inserted into the anus. This is ideal for kids who vomit after taking a tablet or have difficulty swallowing. You will need to follow the instructions provided on how to insert them.
Paracetamol Dosage for Children
While the dosage of paracetamol can relieve fever and pain, the wrong dosage may potentially be fatal. Here are the age-wise dosage details for kids.
1. Paracetamol Syrup Dosages
The right dosage of the syrup is listed in the chart below. Paracetamol dosage for infants is best given in the form of syrup or suppositories in accordance with their age.
Age
Type of syrup
Dosage (maximum 4 doses in 24 hours)
3 to 6 months
Infant
2.5ml
6 to 24 months
Infant
5ml
2 to 4 years
Infant
7.5ml
4 to 6 years
Infant
10ml
6 to 8 years
Six-plus
5ml
8 to 10 years
Six-plus
7.5ml
10 to 12 years
Six-plus
10ml
A maximum of two doses of paracetamol for babies within two to three months may be given under consultation from a doctor.
2. Paracetamol Tablet Dosages
Kids over the age of six can be given paracetamol in the form of a tablet. The chart below lists the dosage of the paracetamol tablet that is right for kids as per their age.
Age
Dosage (maximum 4 doses in 24 hours)
6 to 8 years
250mg
8 to 10 years
375mg
10 to 12 years
500mg
12 to16 years
750mg
3. Before Every Dose
Before you give your child another dose, you should always check your child’s symptoms to see if he really needs it. Also, wait for at least four hours after the previous dose before giving another dose. Do not give more than four doses within a 24 hour period. Keep a track of the time you give the dose and the number of doses given.
How Long Does it Take for Paracetamol to Work?
The effect of paracetamol is different in different people. However, generally, it takes around one to three hours to work after the medicine is taken.
How to Store Paracetamol
It is important that you store drugs like paracetamol safely and with added caution.
Keep it out of the reach and sight of children
Lock it in a cupboard or a box
Do not keep it in the refrigerator, as it does not need to be chilled
Ask your pharmacist for a child-resistant cap for syrup bottles
These practices can prevent children from having access to paracetemol and accidentally consuming it.
Side Effects of Paracetamol
If given in the right doses, paracetamol rarely causes any side effects. In some cases, children can have an allergic reaction to the medicine, which may cause
Skin rashes with red blisters that are swollen and itchy. Skin peeling may also occur
Heaviness or discomfort in the chest and the throat
Trouble breathing and speaking
Wheezing
Swelling of the face, mouth, lips, throat, etc
There are other side effects of the drug, like
Increase in heart rate
Change in blood pressure
Liver and kidney damage due to overdose
Disclaimer: If your child has an allergic reaction, take him to your doctor or call the doctor as soon as possible.
Precautions to Prevent Accidental Overdose
You will need to take all the necessary precautions in order to ensure that your child does not overdose on paracetamol. Here are a few things that you can keep in mind in order to avoid any complications caused by an accidental overdose.
Never combine paracetamol with any other drugs like ibuprofen without consulting with a doctor.
Always check for the expiration date of the drug to avoid poisoning. Do not use the tablet if it has passed its expiration date.
Keep the medicines out of your child’s reach to avoid accidental consumption.
Carefully note down the time and the number of dosages given to your child to prevent repeating the dosage.
Paracetamol Vs Ibuprofen: Which is Better to Treat Fever?
Both drugs are equally effective in treating fever in children; however, paracetamol is largely preferred due to various reasons. Since paracetamol has been in use for longer than ibuprofen, there is substantial data to indicate its effectiveness.
Also, while paracetamol poses a risk of liver and kidney damage in case of an overdose, ibuprofen may cause gut and kidney problems in kids even when given at the right dosage. Especially children who are dehydrated or have other medical conditions are at a higher risk of kidney damage with ibuprofen.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If your child has had an overdose and shows symptoms like nausea, diarrhoea, lack of appetite, vomiting, extreme sleepiness, or has yellow skin or eyes, you will need to call the doctor immediately.
Paracetamol is a household drug and has rarely caused long-lasting side effects. However, as an accidental overdose may be fatal, especially to children, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before giving your child the medicine.
Disclaimer: Drugs like paracetamol should only be given to kids after a proper consultation with a doctor about the dosage to be administered.
Also Read: Paracetamol Intake During Pregnancy Read more
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12 Effective Home Remedies for Itchy Skin - Natural Healing for Irritation and Scratchiness
Does your skin feel itchy and do you feel like scratching all the time? Well, itchy skin or itching can occur due to both serious and minor ailments. Scratching may give you some relief but constant scratching can bruise the skin and may even lead to skin infections. Therefore, you must take measures to stop this annoying problem. Itching usually subsides if you take measures to stop it. In this post, we discuss some effective home remedies that may help in reducing your itching woes. Read on to know more about how you can make and use home remedies for itchy skin. Additionally, learn the answers to some frequently asked queries about itchy skin and its remedies.
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Itching Skin Naturally
Itching, which is medically known as pruritus, occurs when the skin or the nerve cells get irritated. This condition may arise due to many factors. However, if you are thinking how to cure itchy skin naturally, well, take a look at some of the following home remedies:
1. Holy Basil
Holy basil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties because of the presence of camphor, eugenol and thymol.
What You Will Need
Few fresh basil leaves.
A few drops of water
Method
Take the leaves and grind them into a fine paste by adding water.
Apply this paste all over the affected area to get relief.
Alternatively, you may take the leaves and boil them in some water. Apply the decoction on the affected area, with the help of a cotton ball.
You may also rub the leaves directly on your itchy skin.
You can use this treatment on a daily basis until you feel better.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is very good for the skin, and it helps in curing itching too. The oil is a rich source of medium chain fatty acids that contain anti-inflammatory and antihistamines. Both these components help in soothing skin itching. This is one of the most effective home remedies for itchy skin on the face.
What You Will Need
Organic coconut oil (quantity, as required)
Method
After taking a bath in warm water, apply coconut oil on your itchy skin.
You may also apply coconut oil all over your body.
This remedy can be safely applied on a regular or daily basis.
3. Oatmeal
Oatmeal can be added to your bath water to relieve the symptoms of itching. This remedy works because oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is a great remedy for itchy skin due to an allergic reaction.
What You Will Need
2 to 3 cups of oatmeal
Method
Mix oatmeal in your bath water.
Keep your body soaked in the water for 15 to 20 minutes. You may gently scrub the itchy area with oatmeal too.
You may follow this remedy once a day.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a great home remedy to soothe itchy skin. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help in preventing infections and also reduce itching. The presence of certain enzymes also helps in maintaining the normal pH balance of the skin.
What You Will Need
2-3 cups apple cider vinegar
Method
Pour apple cider vinegar in your bath water and soak yourself for 15 to 20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take one part apple cider vinegar and two parts vinegar and apply this blend with a cotton ball on the affected area.
Use this treatment once a day for speedy recovery.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda is alkaline in nature, and thus it is a great way to neutralise the skin acids and relieve itching. The anti-inflammatory properties also help in reducing skin inflammation.
What You Will Need
1 cup baking soda
Method
Mix baking soda in your bath water and let it dissolve completely.
Soak your body in this bath water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Doing this once a day may help in reducing the itching bouts.
6. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds offer relief from itching and skin inflammation because these tiny seeds contain anti-inflammatory properties. The chances of occurrence of rashes or skin infection also reduce considerably.
What You Will Need
1 cup of fenugreek seeds
Water as required
Method
Soak fenugreek (methi) seeds in warm water for an hour.
Grind the soaked seeds into a fine paste by adding some water.
Apply this paste on itchy skin and leave it until it dries.
Wash the skin with warm water and pat dry.
Use this home remedy at least three times a week.
7. Lemon
Lemons contain acetic and citric acid, which lends them astringent, anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties. All these properties are beneficial in reducing itching and inflammation.
What You Will Need
2 big lemons
A few cotton balls or pads
Method
Take the lemons and squeeze out the juice.
Dip the cotton balls in the juice and apply on the affected area.
If your skin is very sensitive, you can dilute lemon juice by adding some water.
Let it dry; rinse your skin with cold water.
Use lemon juice two times a day to reduce itching.
8. Mint
Apart from lending a dewy fresh breath, mint leaves are great for itchy skin too. Mint is anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory in nature and is loaded with menthol. Mint is one of the most effective remedies for itchy skin in summer or winter months.
What You Will Need
1 cup fresh mint leaves
3 cups of water
A few cotton balls
Method
Boil mint leaves in water for a few minutes; keep the water covered while boiling.
Let the water cool down and strain it.
Soak a cotton ball in the water and apply to the affected area.
Apply this water once or twice a day to get relief from itching.
9. Sesame Seeds Oil
Itchy skin is usually accompanied by redness. Sesame seeds are great for reducing the redness that arises along with itching. This happens because sesame seeds contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you have itchy skin after shaving, sesame oil is a great way to help soothe your skin.
What You Will Need
Organic sesame oil, as required
Cotton balls
Method
Take sesame oil in a bowl.
Dip cotton balls into the oil and apply on your itchy skin.
Alternatively, you can massage your whole body with the oil.
Allow the sesame oil to stay on your skin for some time, take a bath with warm water.
You may apply sesame oil daily or on alternate days to reduce itching.
10. Neem Leaves
Neem is one of the most used ingredients for curing many kinds of skin ailments, and itchy skin is one of them. This is because neem is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help in combating the symptoms of many skin conditions including itching.
What You Will Need
Few handfuls of fresh neem leaves
Method
Take boiling hot water and let the neem leaves soak in it for half an hour or until the water becomes lukewarm.
Take a bath with this water.
You can even make a paste of neem leaves by adding some water and apply this paste directly on the affected area.
Wash with tepid water after drying.
You may use this remedy every alternate day.
11. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera does wonders in keeping our skin healthy, and it also helps in curing various kinds of skin troubles, which includes itchy skin too. Vitamin E in it helps in moisturizing the skin and thus prevents drying, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing the signs of itching.
What You Will Need
Half an aloe vera leaf
Method
Take the aloe vera leaf and slit it from the centre. Scoop out the gel with the help of a spoon.
Apply this gel on the affected area of the skin. Keep it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Rinse with cold water.
We suggest that you use this remedy once a day.
12. Honey
Honey is an effective home remedy to moisturise dry skin, for preventing skin infections and also removing any signs of itching because it is loaded with humectants, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
What You Will Need
Honey as required
A few cotton pads
Method
Warm up honey in the microwave for a few seconds.
Dip cotton balls in the warm honey and apply on the itchy area.
Let the honey stay on the affected area for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
Wash with warm water.
How Can You Prevent Itching?
By using any of the measures mentioned above, you may easily get rid of itching. However, prevention is always better than cure. Here are the methods you can use to prevent itching:
Make sure you take a bath once or twice a day to maintain good hygiene.
Opt for cotton and loose-fitted clothes.
Trim your nails regularly.
Make sure you are not stressed and if you are, you must take measures to reduce your stress levels.
Consume ample amounts of water in a day to prevent dehydration, which may make your skin dry.
Reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake.
Use a good moisturiser to keep your skin moisturised.
Keep a tab on things that you may be allergic to, for example, eggs, peanuts, nuts etc.
Make use of a humidifier if you stay in a place where the weather is dry.
FAQs
Below are the answers to some frequently asked queries about itchy skin:
1. Why Does My Skin Itch?
Itchy skin is a very common occurrence and may happen due to many reasons. Some of the common reasons include dryness, rashes, old age, pregnancy, allergic reaction, reaction to certain drugs, certain nervous system disorders, kidney diseases, environmental factors etc.
2. What are the Signs of Itchy Skin Allergy?
Itching can be experienced in various parts of your body, which may include the face, arms, legs and sometimes it may occur on the whole body. The itching is also accompanied by the following symptoms:
Spots and redness on the skin
Blisters or bumps on the skin
Scaly skin
Extremely dry skin
Peeling of the skin
3. Can Dry Skin Cause Itching on Body?
Yes, dryness can cause your skin to itch too. In fact, one of the main reasons for itching is dryness. Thus, it is essential to keep your skin moisturised so that you can keep the itching at bay.
4. Can Skin Itching Be a Sign of Cancer?
Itching may usually result from dryness, allergies and other such causes mentioned above but it is seldom indicative of cancer. However, some cancer drugs may cause itchy, dry and scaly skin.
5. When Should I See A Doctor?
Itching can occur because of a number of reasons. However, if you have been experiencing it for three days or more, it is a good idea to see a doctor. Itching in most cases is not because of serious issues or a cause of concern. But if you notice an itching bout with any rash, wound or bites, it is suggested that you seek immediate medical help.
Itching can get annoying if it persists continuously. Therefore, it is crucial to find a remedy for this problem. If these home remedies do not work, you should seek medical assistance right away and make an appointment with your dermatologist.
Also Read:
Magical Homemade Face Pack for Glowing Skin
Simple and Natural Home Remedies for Skin Infection
Health Benefits of Drinking Lemon Juice in Water
Homemade Face Bleaching Packs to Brighten Your Skin Naturally Read more
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How I Potty Trained My Baby
Hello mommies and daddies! My baby is now 16 months old and I can proudly that say she's potty trained. Here, I will share how I potty trained by baby and give you some tips and tricks that can help you potty train your baby.
Firstly, you'll have to check if your baby is ready for this change by noticing some signs he gives. If so, you are ready to start the process. As Ruqaiyah was my first child, it was very confusing for me to decide when and how to start. Once she turned eight months old and could balance by herself when sitting, I ordered potty seat. Before doing so, I read many articles and did a lot of research about potty-training. Once I was prepared, I took on the challenge to potty train my little one. I began by putting her on the potty seat every morning, without her nappy. Once she was comfortable, it took me no more than five days.
Something you should know is that your baby may not have a potty schedule. She may go once, twice, three, or even four times a day, if digestion is a problem. So, what I did was, as soon as she woke up, I would make her sit on the potty seat so she could try to get some pressure. I would also give her a little warm formula milk. I noticed that on the third day, she pooped in the potty seat for the first time, after which I tried to make it a routine. This went on for some time. Due to digestion issues, she would sometimes go in the nappy itself, but I made sure that the first time during the day was in the potty seat.
When she turned 15 months old, I would take her walking to the washroom. Once again, it was a challenge for me to train her with both pee and poop, but I made sure to remain patient. After a week or two, she peed for the first time in the washroom, which counted as a celebration. I gave her a little piece of chocolate when ever she peed or pooped in the washroom, and applauded her success. After a month of taking her to the washroom every half an hour, she started holding the pee in and would give me signs of wanting to use the washroom. I use Pampers for her during the night also when we travel.
The whole potty training process depends on your child and the time you give. This can even take longer if you want your baby to be potty trained at an early stage. It is difficult, but not impossible.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
17 hours ago
Q. I got faint line all my pregnancy test and I missed my periods for 10 days but USG and TVs test confirm there is no pregnancy is there any chance that it is very early stage that's why it is not visible???? or TVs test is the last thing that can tell that really there is no pregnancy
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
17 hours ago
A. I think it would be advisable for you to get an ultrasound done with your doctor that’s going to give you a clarity because if there is a pregnancy it would be visible at least at least that sack is visible if it’s a regular pregnancy so it would be advisable to have a test with your doctor
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
13 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby girl and boyhai one month 8 days old kya mai ghutti de sakte hun ya gripe water de sakte hun aur kab se start kar sakte hun
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
13 hours ago
A. dear Mum, you should not give any sort of gripe water or ghutti to your baby. these are unhealthy and dangerous and can cause infection to your baby. so, these should be completely avoided.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
13 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant.I recently had growth scan.mu baby is in cephalic presentation. Does this change as I approach my due date. Also my EDD is July 25 and EDC is July 2. what is my expected due date. Also what is EDC?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
13 hours ago
A. edc is expected date of delivery only.
that is 40 weeks
You will get more information for your query with your family doctor. You may meet your dr in person for proper guidance .
It is important to remain in contact with your doctor.
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
13 hours ago
Q. why I am getting dizziness in my pregnancy
I am going with 3rd month of my pregnancy it's a very strong dizziness I feel at times means every day .....no other symptoms of pregnancy .Please help with elaboration .All okay means isn't part of this journey.
Read moreSwati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Do consult your doctor as soon as you can. It's important to find the real reason because without that, proper medication is not possible.
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
13 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant and had growth scan recently.My baby is in cephalic presentation.does this change after 36 week or does this remain the same?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. usually fixed. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. it's my 5 month n I still didn't went for check up yet not even once is it okay if I go now or?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. You should have started going from the very beginning itself once you get to know you’re pregnant but since you haven’t reached that now if you’re pregnancy has been healthy last five months please get it checked with your doctor also if you need to start with any supplements or diet the doctor would advise you after a ultrasound so please visit your gynaecologist
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