Colds
Colds, also known as upper respiratory tract infections, are among the most prevalent illnesses that affect children. When your child begins daycare or preschool, it's common for them to experience an average of eight colds each year. Typically, these colds manifest 2-3 days after exposure and can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Common cold symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, a sore or scratchy throat, sneezing, coughing, and occasionally a low-grade fever. Nasal discharge can range from watery to thick yellow or green. It's important to note that colds are highly contagious, especially in the first few days after symptoms appear, and they can spread through person-to-person contact, airborne particles, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
What can you do to assist your child with a cold?
1) Elevate the Head During Sleep
Elevating your child's head while they sleep can help ease breathing difficulties.
2) Use Humidified Air:
Cool mist humidifiers are recommended to help loosen nasal secretions.
3) Maintain Hydration and Rest:
Ensure your child stays well-hydrated and gets adequate rest to support recovery.
4) Nasal Saline Drops and Bulb Suctioning:
Using nasal saline drops and periodic bulb suctioning can help clear nasal congestion.
5) Chicken Soup:
While research is limited, chicken soup contains cysteine, an amino acid known to have mucous-thinning properties. It's worth trying for relief.
6) Avoid OTC Cough and Cold Medications:
It's essential to follow the latest recommendations that advise against using over-the-counter cough and cold medications for children under 4 years of age due to potential ineffectiveness and the risk of overdosing.
When should you consider a visit to our clinic?
1) Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing:
Seek medical attention if your child experiences breathing difficulties.
2) Worsening Cough:
If the cough intensifies, consult with us.
3) Increased Fatigue or Lethargy:
If your child becomes excessively tired and cannot maintain hydration, it's important to get medical guidance.
4) Sore Throat with Severe Pain When Swallowing:
A sore throat with significant pain during swallowing warrants evaluation.
5) Fever Lasting More Than Three Days:
If a fever persists for more than three days or doesn't respond to medical intervention and cooling measures, contact us.
6) Ear Pain:
Ear pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Is there a way to prevent colds?
While cold prevention may seem challenging, several measures can help:
1) Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals:
Steer clear of individuals with colds and objects they may have touched, such as utensils, cups, and tissues.
2) Practice Good Hand Hygiene:
Regular and thorough handwashing is crucial.
3) Cover Nose and Mouth When Sneezing/Coughing:
Teach your child to cough into their elbow, not their hand.
For those curious about the use of zinc, vitamin C, and Echinacea, it's important to note that there is no substantial research supporting their effectiveness in preventing colds in children.
At Pediatrics & Adolescents Clinic, we are dedicated to providing guidance and care to support your child's well-being during colds and various illnesses.
