A head cold, or common cold, is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that causes unpleasant symptoms, such as headaches, coughs and sneezes. Viruses that cause common colds, like rhinoviruses, are highly contagious, and spread by inhalation of infected droplets, or by contact with infected droplets that are found on objects and surfaces. Young children experience frequent colds due to their immature immune systems and through close contact with each other in settings such as kindergarten. It is normal for children to experience between six and 10 colds each year, according to the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
Symptoms
Symptoms of head colds are caused by the body's defensive reaction to the viral infection. Symptoms include headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, watery eyes, sneezing, a stuffed-up nose, a sore throat and a dry and tickly cough. Fevers of above 100 degrees Fahrenheit are symptoms that are more common in children than in adults. Children may also experience a persistent and tiresome night-time cough that is caused by post-nasal drip, or excess accumulation of mucus in the throat or at the back of the nose. Head colds are especially problematic for babies, as a stuffed-up nose can severely hinder the infant's ability to suckle at the breast or bottle.
Treatment
Children who have healthy immune systems recover from head colds within one to two weeks. Antibiotics are used for treatment of bacterial infections and are ineffective against viruses. Treatment includes rest and drinking adequate amounts of fluid to help loosen phlegm. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen provide safe pain relief for children, if taken in prescribed doses that are recommended for specific age groups and weights. Children who are younger than 12 should never take aspirin, while anyone under the age of 19 should avoid aspirin during viral illnesses due to an increased risk of developing a potentially fatal condition called Reye Syndrome. Saline nose drops and steam inhalation methods help to relieve nasal congestion.
Prevention
Prevention of infection is difficult because there is no vaccine to protect children from head colds, and infected persons are contagious for up to three weeks, says Dr. Iman Sharif at KidsHealth.org. Parents should encourage children to wash their hands frequently and especially before meals. Infected children should use tissues to cover their noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of any used tissues immediately. Children should also avoid sharing utensils, such as spoons and cups, to prevent the spread of infection.
Complications
Sharif recommends seeking medical advice if a child's cold symptoms become noticeably worse after three days -- a doctor can check for conditions such as strep throat, sinusitis, pneumonia and bronchitis. A simple swab test, or throat culture, is taken from inside the throat to determine whether antibiotics are needed for any secondary bacterial infection. Symptoms that may require prompt medical attention include shortness of breath, extreme lethargy, coughing up excessive amounts of mucus, vomiting, diarrhea, severe pains in the head, neck, face, stomach or chest, swollen lymph nodes and earache. Medical attention is also recommended for children who experience a fever of higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit, or a fever of higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit that lasts for more than one day.
