Colds

 
Colds are caused by viruses. Children catch more colds than adults because they are still building up their immune systems. The average toddler will have 6 to 10 colds a year, mostly in the fall and winter, so they may seem to have a non-stop cold for months on end! Remember, colds are generally not dangerous and some simple home remedies will get your child through most of his or her colds.

Symptoms of a cold

Fever. There will often be a fever during the first 2 or 3 days of a cold.

Runny or Stuffy Nose. Runny or stuffy nose typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks. The mucus usually starts out clear then turns green or yellow as the cold progresses. Green or yellow mucus is a normal part of a cold and does not mean the child needs antibiotics.

Cough. Coughing is a part of most colds and can often last for 3 or 4 weeks, even after the rest of the cold symptoms are gone.

Treatments for colds

Fluids. Give lots of liquids to drink to thin out mucus and avoid dehydration.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). These medicines can relieve aches and pains and reduce fever.

Vaporizer. Run a cool-mist vaporizer/humidifier in the child’s room.

Steam treatments. Turn on the hot shower to steam up the bathroom; sit in the steamy bathroom with your child for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps to loosen mucus and ease breathing, especially if done just before bedtime.

Saline Nose Drops. You can buy saline nose drops in any drug store or make your own by adding ¼ teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces of warm water. Place 1-2 drops in each nostril and use a bulb syringe to remove the mucus or have the child blow his or her nose.

Cold Medicines. Cold medicines are generally ineffective and not necessary for most colds.

When to Call the Office

Please call the office IMMEDIATELY for:

· Trouble breathing

Please call during REGULAR HOURS for:

· Cold with an earache

· Runny nose that lasts more than 2 weeks

· Cough that lasts for more than 4 weeks