Toddler chest infection- how long for antibiotics to work?

[amy923]

Hi,

My toddler has had a cough for 5 weeks. Last week the nurse listened to her and told me it's post natal drip. Took her back this week as seemed worse especially at night and she said it sounds crackly so prescribed her amoxicillin. (Can't for the life of me get to a GP)

She's had 6 doses so two days worth and this morning she has coughed so much!! She's off her food but unsure whether it's down to the amoxicillin as I can see it's a side affect? Otherwise fine in herself. Should it have got better by now ? I have missed the cut off for a appointment at my GP surgery. I don't know if I should give it more time or should it not have worked by now? She seems worse in the morning or when sleeping.

Thanks

I seem to remember DD being better within a few hours, but I think that was with an ear infection. It wouldn't hurt to call and ask.

Make sure she's drinking enough. I sometimes make a fuss of making a special milkshake/cocktail for dc when ill - fruit, milk, oats, ice cubes, maybe chocolate powder in a blender.

Common to cough more lying down, might help to raise the head end of her bed a few cm.

I'd agree with @Dogtooth . One of my DC is prone to chest infections. You start to see an improvement within 24 hours. Have you tried piriton, in case it's allergy related? (in addition to any meds prescribed)

It can take up to 3-5 days sometimes for you to start feeling better after starting any sort of antibiotics.
Everything is worse at night time and first thing in the morning, it's when the body is most rested, relaxed and settled. Coughs in particular are always worse. Prop her up a bit more at night time, try vicks rubbed on the soles of her feet at night with socks on top, also a cool mist humidifier are always worth their money imo. Always helped myself, dh and our boys when we've been poorly xx