Cough & Colds
Young children in daycare or with siblings in school may get a cold every month, especially in winter. They are due to any number viruses. Symptoms include cough, runny nose, stuffy nose, fever, tiredness, scratchy or painful throat,, clogged ears, and decreased appetite. Colds may last 7-10 days.
Green colored mucus may normally be seen with a cold, so by itself does not signify a sinus infection.
Treat your child with extra fluids, an extra pillow, and a humidifier. Colds are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Antibiotics may be prescribed only if a secondary bacteria infection is suspected.
Sometimes the cough may linger longer than 10 days. Usually this is not a concern unless fevers returns. To understand better, check out these links.
What Causes a Lingering Cough After a Cold
Fever
Fever is anything above 100.4℉ (38℃).
Fever is one of the body’s defense mechanisms against infections since germs do not live as well in a hot environment. Children frequently may have high fevers (103℉+) even with viral infections, which are colds, upper respiratory infections, the flu, Covid. The temperature will not keep climbing indefinitely. Typically a fever may increase on the third day then lower and resolve by day 5. Child should be seen if fevers persist beyond five days.
Fever alone is not harmful to the child in most circumstances. However, it may be uncomfortable so medicine may be given to treat fevers. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be given alternately every 3 hours for recurring fevers. They may also be given immediately after the other if the fever persists an hour later. Fevers may also be treated with lukewarm, not cold, baths.
Be sure to give plenty of fluids! Water, Pedialyte, Gatorade, chicken soup, etc.
Please call if the fever does not decrease after giving ibuprofen and acetaminophen or if your febrile child is under 1 month old.
Please take to the ER if your febrile child is lethargic.