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- Asthma
- Bronchiolitis
- Chickenpox
- Colic
- Common Cold
- Constipation
- Cough
- Croup
- Diaper Rash
- Diarrhea
- Ear Infections
- Eye Infections
- Fever in Children
- Fifth Disease
- Fluoride
- Head Injuries
- Head Lice
- Immunizations
- Lead Poisonings
- Lyme Disease
- Nosebleeds
- Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac
- Poisonings
- Scabies
- Sensitive Skin or Eczema
- Sore Throat/Strep Throat
- Thrush
- Vomiting
Caring for Children: Common Cold
The common cold, or upper respiratory tract infection (URI), is a viral infection that causes a runny or congested nose, and sometimes cough, sore throat or fever. Most children get at least six to eight colds a year. Usually the symptoms last seven to ten days, though a cough may last two to three weeks.
There are no cures for the common cold, though there are some things that you can do to keep your child more comfortable. Salt water or saline nose drops can loosen the secretions in the nose, making it easier to blow or suction the nose. Saline nose drops can be purchased over the counter, or made at home by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of salt in one cup of water. The mixture should be made fresh each day. To give the nose drops, the child should lie back with the head tipped back. Three drops should be placed in each nostril and after a minute the child should blow her nose. An infant's nose can be gently suctioned with a soft bulb syringe. Nose drops can be used as needed, especially before meals or bedtime, making it easier to eat or sleep.
Vaseline under the nose can help prevent skin from becoming raw and cracked. Positioning in a propped up position or placing an infant in a car seat can make breathing easier. Appetites may decrease with a cold, but it is important to give your child plenty of liquids to drink. A cool mist humidifier can add moisture to the air and help loosen secretions. Water in a humidifier should be changed daily, and the humidifier should be washed to prevent growth of bacteria or mold. Hot water vaporizers are not recommended because they can cause serious burns.
Call your pediatrician if:
- The fever lasts for more than three days or for any fever in a baby under three months of age (Temperature greater than 100.4 (F) or 38 (C).
- The child complains of a sore throat or earache.
- The child has difficulty breathing.
- Any other symptom that causes concern.
