Paediatricians very often prescribe “an inhaler with a bit of cortisone” to children, even very small ones, who have a cough and/or cold. It is often an overused treatment. Infections of the upper respiratory tract (nose, mouth, pharynx and larynx) are the most frequent illnesses in children. They are almost always caused by a seasonal flu virus and heal on their own within a week or a little more. Particularly in winter, newborns are the most affected by the viruses. Colds, sore throats, phlegm and coughs often occur frequently and rather quickly and take weeks to pass, much to the desperation of new mothers. The persistent cough and associated requests for treatment are the most common reasons for telephone consultations and paediatric visits. According to data by “Osservatorio ARNO bambini” (a continuous surveillance system regarding doctor’s prescriptions in the national healthcare system), corticosteroid inhalers are among the top 15 medications prescribed in Italy. The names of the active substances on market are Beclometasone, Budesonide, Flunisolide and Fluticasone.

Advice from Altroconsumo

- In the case of a cold or sore throat, some traditional methods are unquestionably valuable. Keep the child’s nose clean so that he/she will not breath through the mouth, increasing the risk of a cough due to throat irritation. Drinking water or warm beverages with honey on a regular basis is an excellent therapy.
- Use corticosteroid inhalers only upon medical instruction and only for situations where its efficiency has been proven.
- Frequently open the windows of the residence, even in winter, to reduce the concentrations of microbes and irritating substances. Do not over-heat the surroundings and counter the dryness caused by radiators by humidifying the air.
- Do not smoke because exposing children to cigarette smoke increases the irritation of the respiratory tract.
- Remember that a sore throat and cold are illnesses that pass by themselves and accelerating their course is unlikely.

In collaboration with

ACP - Associazione Culturale Pediatri