Common Cold
Pediatricians in Houston, Texas
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Is your child suffering from a runny nose, a sore throat, or feeling particularly tired? You might be facing a case of common cold. At Katy Pediatric Associates, we know how stressful this can be. Our seasoned team of compassionate pediatricians will carefully assess your child’s health and give you the best recommendations to help alleviate their symptoms.
What Is and What Causes a Common Cold?
A common cold is a viral infection that affects your upper respiratory track and creates discomfort, mainly in the throat and nose. It’s particularly common in children.
Most common cold cases happen because of a viral infection, as there are over 200 different viruses that can cause it. The virus spreads through the air, enters the body via your nose and/or mouth, and settles in your upper respiratory track.
Children are more prone to catching a cold because of a variety of factors:
- Hygiene habits: Kids are still learning how to take care of their bodies and usually don’t wash their hands, have frequent hand-to-mouth contact, and sneeze or cough without covering.
- Close contact with other children: It’s particularly common that your child gets sick when they start going to school, daycare or playgrounds, as they are in close proximity with other kids.
- Immature immune system: Since their systems are still developing, they aren’t as effective for preventing or battling viruses.
Symptoms of a Common Cold
The symptoms of a common cold usually start between 1 to 3 days after getting infected and last one or two weeks. If your kid is experiencing the following, you should visit your pediatrician:
- Congestion
- Trouble sleeping
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
Additionally, if symptoms get worse, they could experience:
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Achy muscles and bones
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
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Common Cold Diagnosis & Treatment at Katy Pediatrics
Most common cold cases are diagnosed through an observation of the symptoms. However, it’s important to keep track of them, as these same signs could indicate the flu, allergies, or more complex respiratory issues.
There is no specific cure for the common cold, and the symptoms usually go away on their own after a few days. Nonetheless, your pediatrician can give you clear instructions on how to take care of your child and help alleviate their discomfort.
These might include:
- Keep your kid hydrated throughout the day by giving them water, soup, etc.
- Make sure they rest.
- Try saline nasal sprays.
- Use a cool-midst humidifier at night.
If the symptoms persist or get more severe, follow your provider’s instructions for medications.
Your Trusted Pediatric Practice
Apart from monitoring your child’s evolution, at our pediatric practice, we will work with your family to ensure their best growth and allow your tranquility. Our assessments for common cold seek to restore your peace of mind, rule out further issues, and get your little one back on their feet.
At Katy Pediatric Associates, we are here for you and your family through all of the ups and downs of navigating your child’s growth. To learn more about the common cold in Houston, Texas, schedule your visit by calling 281-492-7676 or send us a message online today.