Cold and Cough

The common cold is the most frequent illness observed. It is usually mild and resolves on its own. The cause of the common cold is a virus known as rhinovirus, of which there are over a hundred different varieties.

Symptoms of the common cold begin one to two days after exposure to rhinovirus.

Symptoms of the common cold are usually at their worst during the first 10 days. However, it is not uncommon for a child to develop a second cold just as the first one has resolved. This can make it seem as if the initial cold has ran a course of weeks up to a month.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend the use of antihistamines, decongestants, cough medicines, or expectorants for treatment of cold symptoms in children. Few clinical trials on infants and children regarding the use of these medications have yielded little evidence demonstrating any benefits in symptomatic relief. These medications have the potential to cause side effects which are exacerbated in children and infants.

Humidified air is a simple approach to alleviate nasal congestion. If a humidifier is not available in the household, a shower can be utilized. Simply let the shower run on hot in effort to make the room fill up with steam, sit in the steamy bathroom with your child for 10-15 minutes. The steam will help mobilize the secretions in the nasal cavity. It is important to remember to never leave children unattended around water no matter the temperature.

Saline nasal drops can be found at many pharmacies. Saline drops help loosen congestion, and can be very effective at easing congestion when used in combination with a bulb syringe. 

Elevation of the head can also be helpful.  A child’s head can be elevated by putting a rolled up towel or book underneath the mattress or by simply keeping them in a seat or swing where their head is higher than their chest.

Maintaining adequate hydration may help to thin secretions in the respiratory tract, and relieve the respiratory mucosa. In addition, ingesting warm fluids such as tea, or chicken soup may help to thin secretions, promoting their removal. Warm fluids given in effort to alleviate congestion should always be age appropriate. Honey acts as an antimicrobial agent to sooth coughs and sore throats. Do NOT use honey for children under 1 year old as this can cause infant botulism.