More Dangers at the Store: Can that over the counter cold medicine do more harm than good?

First we have to take away the poisoned toys, then we find out the cough medicine in our cabinet may cause more problems than it helps to fix. No wonder we feel guilty.

The news about the dangers of cough and cold medicines is nothing new. Parents took a stand to protect their teen children and now many cough medicines are available only behind the pharmacy counter because they were being abused by those looking for a high. However, it looks like the FDA is finally going to take a stronger stand to help ALL children be protected against the potential dangers of these drugs. Even those who are using them for the right reasons.

How many times have you taken your child to the doctor and heard the words, "It's just a virus. I really can't give you anything for it?" There is nothing more frustrating or upsetting to a parent than not being able to do something for your child when he or she is sick. We want to be able to make them feel better and hate to see them miserable.

Like many of you, I grew up during the time when medications ruled the world. I would hardly even finish a sneeze before I was given something to "make me better." Well, times have changed, medicine has advanced. We have learned that our bodies are pretty good at creating natural defenses to many ailments. And as parents we know that often times there is no better medicine than a hug and a kiss.

Remember, no one knows your child as well as you do. If you think something is wrong, see a medical professional. But should you hear the dreaded, "It's only a virus," see it as the perfect excuse to forget about everything else going on in the world and spend a little time with your little one. It may make you both feel a whole lot better!