How VapoSteam Can Ease Coughs and Improve Sleep for Kids and Families

Cold and flu season can be especially tough on parents, with sleepless nights, restless children, and the constant challenge of managing symptoms like congestion and cough. A humidifier, paired with soothing steam, can be a game-changer in making those difficult nights more manageable. This week, I welcome Stacey Ishman, a pediatric otolaryngologist, to discuss the benefits of humidification and Vicks products like VapoSteam and humidifiers for improving sleep, especially during cold and allergy seasons.  She joins me to discuss: The benefits of using a humidifier during illness How soothing ingredients like camphor and menthol help create a calming bedtime routine for your family That your child can breathe easier and sleep better with Vicks To connect with Vicks on Instagram @vicks_usa and check out their products VapoSteam Core, VapoSteam Lavender, and Cool Relief Humidifier. 00:00:00 Introduction & Importance of Sleep During Colds  00:01:10 The Science Behind Vicks Vapor Steam 00:02:29 Meet Dr. Stacy Ashman: Pediatric Sleep Expert  00:06:40 Why Coughs Get Worse at Night  00:08:11 Is Vapor Steam Safe for All Kids?  00:14:03 How to Incorporate Vapor Steam into a Bedtime Routine  00:18:55 The Role of Humidification in Cold & Allergy Season  00:21:32 Final Thoughts & Takeaways We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you! Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠! And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices