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It’s a fact: more than 100 viruses can give your child a common cold. But here’s the good news: your child’s developing immune system won’t protect them until they’re exposed to some of these, and it’s not unusual for a child to have up to 20 colds before they reach the age of two. So, while it may seem like a lot, it’s all part of the normal process of building immunity and growing as a healthy adult.Â
Once exposed, they’ll develop immunity to many of these viruses, and the constant parade of stuffy noses will eventually slow down. In the meantime, Home care and family remedies like chicken soup will help your child go through this annoying moment.
Sometimes, cold symptoms can be more severe than usual, and a doctor’s advice can help sidestep complications beyond the usual complaints. Parents must know what to watch for infants since they can’t give verbal clues. Katy Pediatric Associates is standing by to help you when a cold turns into something beyond the ordinary.
Kids and Colds: What’s Normal and Why You Shouldn’t be Afraid
When you become a parent, you start to understand how frightening sniffing or coughing can be. You are expected to get worried about your child’s condition. But, a cold is nothing weird in a child, especially in the first years, since their immune system is developing. Most colds will give your child a bad time, but nothing more than that. Most viruses that could affect him will typically bring mild symptoms that will resolve on their own.
These are the symptoms of a typical cold in kids:
- Runny or Stuffy Nose
- Sneezing and Mild Cough
- Sore Throat
- Fussiness
- Low-Grade Fever
Most colds will last between 7 to 10 days. Although they might be uncomfortable, your child will probably not need medical assistance. However, this is not a reason to ignore their condition or to not try to ease their symptoms.
5 Home Care Tips for the Cold Symptoms of Your Child
Some tips that might help your child with their cold symptoms are:Â
- Give Them a Honey Spoon. Perfect for soothing throats and treating coughs. Infants younger than 12 months should not have honey because of the risk of botulism.
- Have Your Child’s Head Higher Than Their Body. This method helps mucus travel down the throat, preventing it from pooling in the back of the mouth. For children or babies with a cold, this can improve breathing and reduce congestion.
- Try Saline Nasal Drops or a Nose Suction Product. Helps to clear mucus and congestion
- Hydration. Offer water to your kid continuously throughout the day. Babies should continue to drink breastmilk or formula.
- Avoid Using Over-The-Counter Cough and Cold Medicines. Especially for young children. Although it may not be pleasant to hear, coughing is crucial in helping your child expel mucus and germs from their airways. Do not administer these medicines to your child if they are under 4.
Red Flags: When is Time to Call the Doctor
A cold usually should be harmless, but complications can arise, and specific symptoms may need a pediatrician’s attention. If your instincts tell you something feels “off,” don’t hesitate to seek help.
These are some “Red Flags” that might signal the need for medical assistance:
- High Fever or Fever that Won’t Quit
- Trouble Breathing
- Signs of DehydrationÂ
- Ear Pain or Ear Drainage
- Strep Throat Symptoms
- Cold Symptoms Lasting More Than 10 Days
- Unusual Behavior
Your Trusted Pediatric Practice
Having some colds throughout infancy is the norm, not the exception. However, as a competent parent, you can confidently manage this situation. When in doubt, we recommend you err on the side of caution and contact our providers; we will not mind checking your child “just to be safe”
To learn more about cold symptoms in your child in Houston, Texas, schedule your visit by calling 281-492-7676 or sending us a message online today.