Although it is called the common cold, treatment should be anything but common when this viral infection affects your child. You must want something compelling so your youngster is comfortable and recovers quickly.
Let’s discuss some guidelines from your pediatricians in Purchase, NY, on how to navigate a childhood cold.
What Is the Common Cold?
Both children and adults succumb to the common cold, a mild to moderate upper respiratory illness which originates in more than 200 known rhinoviruses. These microorganisms are spread by direct person-to-person contact and respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze. The viruses enter the body through the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and eyes, causing 6 to 8 active infections in children during the fall and winter months, the typical cold and flu seasons.
Symptoms of the common cold in children are:
- Runny, congested nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Low grade fever
- Poor sleeping and reduced appetite
- GI upset
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
Common Cold Treatments for Children
Most of the time, families can treat the common cold at home with:
- Increased hydration using water and electrolyte replacements, such as Pedialyte
- A bedroom humidifier to moisturize the air at nigh
- A smoke-free environment (never expose your child to second-hand cigarette smoke)
- Moisturizing lips and the outside of nostrils with petroleum jelly
- Acetaminophen for fever and bodily discomforts
- Saline nasal sprays for congestion
- Rest
- Smaller, more frequent meals to boost the appetite
According to Stanford Health, parents should avoid treating fever with aspirin for youngsters ages 19 and younger because this medication causes a dangerous illness called Reye syndrome. Additionally, do not give ibuprofen to babies six months and younger, and if you choose over-the-counter cold medicine, be sure it is a medicine specifically formulated for children.
Additionally, isolate your child until the fever has resolved for a full 24 hours. Clean and disinfect toys, and wash bedding to keep other family members healthy. Also, parents and kids should always practice frequent hand washing to avoid the spread of cold, flu, and coronavirus viruses throughout the household. This habit is a simple but very effective defense against a slew of disease-causing germs.
Finally, see your pediatrician in Purchase, NY, if symptoms persist for 10 days or longer or if fever increases above 100.4, particularly in infants. Rapid respirations, a bark-like cough, or ear pain should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. Your pediatric doctor may wish to perform onsite lab work, such as the rapid flu or strep tests, to rule out more severe infections.
Excellent Pediatric Care in Purchase, NY
If you wonder where you can get your child premiere pediatric care, simply visit Westchester Park Pediatrics. Our five board-certified pediatricians deliver comprehensive care for your youngster’s needs from birth through the college years. Whether acute or chronic, disease management is your need, or routine physicals and immunizations are your priority, and we deliver them all–warmly and compassionately.
To know more or schedule a consultation with one of our doctors, call us at (914) 761-1717, or request a visit online by filling out our secure appointment form.
