A cold is a viral infection that is a highly common occurrence, especially amongst children. Mayo Clinic estimates that a child will have a cold between six and 10 times per year. A cold is not a serious condition, and affects adults and children similarly. Extra care should be taken with children, however, as their immune systems are not as strong. It can be difficult for them to convey their symptoms as well.
Respiratory Symptoms
The most common symptoms of a cold are respiratory as that is the body system a cold targets. A runny or stuffy nose or congestion is quite common. Your child may experience an itchy or sore throat due to post nasal drip. Episodic coughing or sneezing may occur as well. Consult your pharmacist for recommendations on over-the-counter medications. A visit to the doctor is probably not necessary for a cold.
Malaise
Colds often cause malaise, a general feeling of being unwell. Your child may experience body aches or headaches. Most children feel fatigued and may not be interested in normal activities. It is important for your child to get plenty of rest while his body tries to fight off the virus. Try to make him as comfortable as possible. Small children may experience a fever up to 102 F. Regularly monitor an elevated fever; it will go down on its own in most cases. Children's acetaminophen is often given to children with colds to help treat the symptoms and reduce any associated fever.
Complications
A cold is not fatal. It can cause complications, however, that are more severe. It is important to monitor your child's symptoms to determine the progression of the virus. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, you should contact her doctor immediately: difficultly breathing or shortness of breath, persistent crying, ear pain or ear infection, persistent coughing, severe headache, unusual sleepiness, vomiting or abdominal pain, a fever greater than 103F or a fever lasting for more than three days.
