Colds are caused by viruses. During the first five years of life, children average nine colds per year. Antibiotics are not useful unless a complication occurs (such as ear infection, sinusitis, pneumonia). Colds usually last three to ten days.
Symptomatic treatment includes:
Symptomatic treatment includes:
- Relief of nasal congestion.
a. elevating the head of the bed
b. cool mist humidifier
c. decongestants: every 6 hours, for children over 6 years
d. nasal suction with a bulb syringe in small infants may be helpful
e. salt water nose drops (1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water; maximum three days).
f. 1/8% Neosynephrine Nose Drops in each nostril before feeding and at bedtime may help to shrink swollen mucous membranes; maximum 3 days.
- Diet: clear liquids, juices, and clear soups.
- Rest is important.
- Call the office if:
a. fever lasts for over 3 days (greater than 72 hours)
b. unusual lethargy, irritability or inactivity occurs
c. your child seems to be in pain, is having significant breathing problems, or is repeatedly vomiting.
