Unfortunately the Common Cold in Children is rather unpleasant for adults and children alike and there’s currently no cure. Cold symptoms in children can last up to two weeks, particularly for very young children who find blowing their noses difficult.
Over one hundred different viruses can cause colds so it’s little wonder that children under 12 are particularly prone to the sniffles. In fact children can easily have up to six or eight colds a year and they’re highly contagious.
Colds also can’t be treated using antibiotics. To help relieve the symptoms of a cold, the child’s caregivers should:
- Be told to keep the child well hydrated with plenty of fluids
- Made aware of the importance of regular temperature checks. If a fever is present then paracetamol may be given to bring their temperature down and relieve pain
Relieving the Symptoms
There are several over-the-counter solutions to help relieve a child’s symptoms. These include saline washes which can ease congestion, and are in the form of sprays or drops. Failing that, a saline solution will do a similar job.
The beauty of these is that they’re safe for Common Cold in Children, there are no side effects, and nasal swelling is likely to reduce too.
If the child has a fever, Calpol will bring down the child’s temperature and make them more comfortable so they can sleep.
What to avoid
Children under 12 should not be prescribed decongestants or vapour rubs as they can have unpleasant side effects like stomach upsets, headaches and drowsiness. Cough syrups aren’t a good idea either as they may stop the child coughing up mucus and getting rid of it.
Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections and so they do nothing to combat colds. Steam inhalation is not advised either, not least because it can lead to accidents and burns.
Are you a healthcare professional who regularly treats minor paediatric conditions?
If so, our scheduled course Paediatric minor illness course is well worth considering. Now being offered on Zoom, it’s the chance for you to gain CPD house from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Allowing nurses, pharmacists, doctors, health visitors and other allied health practitioners to boost their knowledge, the course concentrates on childhood minor illnesses from infancy to late teen years.
It’s perfect for practitioners who are already skilled in history taking and physical examinations, and who therefore wish to explore a variety of paediatric conditions in an evidence based context.
The course is worth 21 hours of CPD and is held over 3 days starting on the 27th October 2020. It will then be repeated again at London’s Hamilton House on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th February 2021 (coronavirus permitting).
It’s a popular one and spaces are always limited so make sure you book up early to avoid disappointment.
