First Aid: Common Cold
Kids can get eight colds a year — or more. The common cold sends more kids to the doctor than any other illness. Most colds are caused by a virus found in the air and on the things we touch. Antibiotics can't treat viruses, but you can help your child feel better.
What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Cold? stuffy or runny nose (may start out watery, then turn thick yellow or green) itchy or sore throat sneezing cough headache mild fever feeling tired eating less What to Do Ease discomfort with: acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed if your child is older than 6 monthsa cool-mist humidifier or steamy bathroom saline (saltwater) drops for a congested nose gentle suction of nasal mucus using a bulb syringe when necessary Offer lots of liquids — breast milk or formula for babies; water and diluted juice for older kids, but no caffeinated beverages. Never give cough or cold medicine to children under 6 years old. Call a doctor first for older kids.Never give aspirin to a child.Get Medical Care if Your Child Has: cold symptoms that get worse or last more than a week cough and congestion triggered by pollen, dust, pets, etc. a barking cough or a cough that is severe and happens in spasms trouble breathing a high fever and appears ill; or any fever in a baby 3 months old or younger a sore throat that makes it hard to eat and drink a bad headache Think Prevention! Remind kids to:
avoid anyone who has a cold avoid smokers (secondhand smoke increases kids' risk of getting sick) wash their hands well and often, especially after nose-blowing and playing with other kidssneeze and cough into shirtsleeves or tissues — not hands
