Parenthood is a rollercoaster of love, with a few bumps along the way. One challenge that parents usually face annually is dealing with kids' colds. Those adorable sniffles and coughs sometimes catch them off guard, and it's natural to wonder when to hit the panic button.
Consider this article a friendly guide to figuring that out. Read the signs and know when to take action. Ensure that the little ones get the TLC they need.
Here are cases when bringing a child who has contracted a cold to a physician may be the best course of action.
Children are Too Young to Defend their Body
If your child is less than 3 months old, it's important to note that while most colds and fevers in newborns often resolve without complications, their immune systems are still developing. At this stage, infants may not effectively communicate what is causing them discomfort. Therefore, special attention and care are needed to ensure their needs are being met.
Colds are Supposed to be Quick
It's typical to experience thick or discolored (yellow, green) nasal discharge during a cold, and in most cases, antibiotics are not necessary. However, if this discharge persists for more than 10 to 14 days, it's advisable to contact your doctor.
Prolonged symptoms may indicate a secondary bacterial infection, and professional guidance can help determine the appropriate course of action for your specific situation.
Kids are Supposed to Drink Fluids
If your child refuses to drink water, it's advisable to bring them to a doctor for evaluation. Children may resist drinking during colds for various reasons. Symptoms such as a sore throat, congestion, or cough can cause discomfort, making swallowing painful and leading to a reluctance to consume fluids.
Temporary changes in taste and smell during colds can also make liquids less appealing. Additionally, nasal congestion, which affects breathing through the nose, may present a challenge to drinking. The fatigue and lack of energy associated with illness can further decrease a child's interest in eating or drinking.
High Grade Fever is not Normal
Children may develop a fever during a cold, but a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered high. If your child's cold leads to a fever in this range, it's recommended to consult your doctor. Persistent or high fever may signal an underlying complication, necessitating medical evaluation and proper management. Always heed the personalized advice of your healthcare provider based on your child's specific condition.
Having Ear Infection Is a Warning Sign
It's crucial to contact your doctor if your child exhibits any signs of a middle ear infection, which can stem from a cold. Look out for symptoms such as a high fever, especially if it begins several days after the onset of a cold, along with earache, crankiness, vomiting, or the presence of pus draining from the ear. Take Small Steps to Give Cold Remedies to Babies When it comes to a child's health, taking proactive steps is a parent's natural instinct. Coping with kids' colds can be tricky, but here's a friendly tip: consider using over-the-counter cold medicine. It's a simple and helpful way to ease potential complications!
By administering medication, parents not only help ease their child's discomfort but also play a crucial role in aiding the prevention of complications that might lead to hospitalization. Try Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®). It is designed to help relieve the symptoms associated with common colds, upper airway cough syndrome, allergic rhinitis, and minor respiratory tract infections. It also aids in addressing issues like clogged nose, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and sneezing.
The key ingredients, Phenylephrine HCl and Chlorphenamine maleate, act as a nasal decongestant and anti-allergy component, respectively. Phenylephrine HCl helps clear obstructed air passages, reducing congestion and postnasal drip, while Chlorphenamine maleate assists in alleviating symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®) is administered orally, with suggested use based on age groups, ranging from 1 to 2.5 mL for children and 10 mL for adults every 6 hours, or as recommended by a doctor.
If symptoms persist, please consult your doctor.
ASC Reference No. U0182P062424D
References:
When to worry about your child's fever
What is the common cold in children?
COMMON COLD OVERVIEW
Colds in children
