Common Colds In Lake Charles, LA
When your child has a cold, the signs and symptoms can be severe. That’s because a child’s airways are smaller than those of an adult. When your child has a cold, it can be difficult for your child to breathe through the nose.
The Causes of a Common Cold
A cold develops from contact with a virus. When your child is around other children with colds, your child can develop one too.
Signs and Symptoms of a Cold
Your child may have a cold if your child is experiencing:
- Nasal and sinus congestion
- Sore throat and coughing
- Sneezing and wheezing
- Overall body aches
- Lack of energy
What You Can Do to Help Your Child Feel Better
A common cold is contagious, so you should keep your child out of school and away from others. In addition, you should:
- Have your child rest as much as possible until your child is well
- Give your child plenty of fluids
- Give your child over-the-counter Tylenol
- Give your child over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines
What Can Happen When Your Child Has a Cold
A common cold can develop into a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. Ear infections, eye infections, strep throat, and sinus infections are just a few of the problems that can develop from a cold.
When Your Child Needs to See the Pediatrician
Fever is often the first indicator of an infection developing. Your child should visit the pediatrician if:
- Your child is under 4 months old and has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher
- Your child is over 4 months old and has a temperature of 104 degrees or higher
- Your child still has a fever after 2 to 3 days
How Your Pediatrician Can Help Your Child Feel Better
Your pediatrician can prescribe antiviral medications to help lessen the severity of symptoms. Your pediatrician will also perform a comprehensive physical examination to make sure your child doesn’t have an underlying medical condition.