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Colds and coughs in children
Children can be quite miserable when they have a cold and/or cough, and this puts added pressure on the parents, particularly if disturbed nights are involved
Common symptoms include:
- raised temperature
- runny nose
- sore throat
- cough (often worse at night)
- headache
- poor appetite
- earache
What are the treatments for coughs and colds?
Colds usually start to get better after 3 to 4 days, but a cough can last for 3 to 4 weeks or even longer. Antibiotics will not help a cough or cold, but there are some things you can do to make your child more comfortable:
- Make sure they have plenty to drink
- Give paracetamol in a suitable format (for example Calpol, Disprol, Tixymol)
- If they have a temperature don't wrap them up in thick blankets
- There is little evidence to show that cough medicines help, but some do contain a decongestant which may be helpful if your child has a bunged up nose
- Medicines and children: MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSES AND READ AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS
What other symptoms should I be aware of?
Most coughs and colds get better without complications, but sometimes a more
serious secondary bacterial infection develops from an initial virus infection. See a doctor if your child develops wheeziness, persistent earache, fast or difficult breathing,
persistent high temperatures, drowsiness, or chest pains, or if you are uneasy about their condition
Source: LSMP
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