Colds and Upper Respiratory Infections
Colds, upper respiratory infections, and URIs are common terms we use to describe viral illnesses that cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, fever, and cough. The fever usually lasts for 2-3 days, and the cough with congestion and runny nose may last for 5-10 days. The typical preschool-age child may experience 6-10 colds per year. Most colds resolve on their own with home care, but some may lead to ear infection, sinus infection, asthma attack, or other complications.
Treatment can include increased fluid intake, nasal saline rinses, pain medications, and cough mediations if appropriate such as Delsym, Zarbees, and honey (if child is over 1 year of age).
Your child needs to be seen if experiencing ear pain, a productive cough, symptoms that don't improve by day 7 - 10 or concerns for complications.
Treatment can include increased fluid intake, nasal saline rinses, pain medications, and cough mediations if appropriate such as Delsym, Zarbees, and honey (if child is over 1 year of age).
Your child needs to be seen if experiencing ear pain, a productive cough, symptoms that don't improve by day 7 - 10 or concerns for complications.
