Cough and Cold in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Preventions

Cough and Cold are the most common infections among children as they are spread through several viruses that affect respiratory system. Though cold and cough do not have any severe effect on the body, yet they weaken the system, and only through proper care and rest can children recover faster. 

About Cold and Cough in Children

Cough and cold mainly affect the nose, throat, and ears—the virus carrying the infection is spread by coughs and sneezes. Infected droplets from the mouth and nose also infect others easily. Children are more prone to the common cold and cough as their immune system is not as strong as adults. 

Symptoms of Cold and Cough

• Runny Nose
• Sore Throat
• Headache
• Bodyache
• Pain in Ears
• Mild Fever and Weakness
• Dry and Itchy eyes
• Sneezing 

Causes of Cold and Cough

Children get infected through viruses and catch a common cold and cough. The symptoms will subside in 5-7 days. There could be other reasons also due to which they get cold and/or cough, such as:

• Sinus
• Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Laryngitis
• Whooping cough
• Croup

How to Manage Cold and Cough?

• There are a few general medicines and home remedies that cure children from Cold and Cough. Since it is a virus-inflicted disease, antibiotics do not work against them. 
• Decongestants and Antihistamines may help. Cough syrups may or may not work for young children. Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are the common medicines used for easing discomfort during colds. However, they must be taken as per a doctor’s direction as the dosage differs for various age groups. 
• There are no special diets for treating Cough and Cold. However, inhaling steam, gargling salt water, and eating fresh & healthy food make them feel good. It is better to avoid oily, spicy, and outside food. 
• Taking a good rest helps the immune system fight better against the virus. 
• Drinking plenty of fluids is advised to relieve the sore throat and runny nose. 
• Saline nose drops are useful for thinning the mucus and blowing it out. 
• Children, more than 12 years of age, can be given honey at bedtime. 
• Cough that stays for a longer period due to allergies or asthma needs special treatment like steroids or inhalers, and that is as per your doctor’s advice only. 

When Should You Get Medical Help for Cold and Cough in Children?

Usually, the symptoms of Cold and cough subside in a week’s time, but in case the child is not recovering, then you should see your doctor. 

There are a few other reasons which prompt medical attention:

• Breathlessness 
• Fever along with cold
• Flared nostrils when breathing
• If the skin pulls in the throat and ribs while breathing
• Wheezing 

Prevention of Cold and Cough

It is difficult to prevent cold and cough as they are very easily spread, but if you take certain precautions, you can prevent your children from falling sick often. 

• Do not share vessels, cups, and glasses with them if any of the family members have a cold and cough. 
• Washing hands frequently after sneezing, blowing your nose, and coughing to stop the spread of droplets. 
• Cover mouth while coughing and sneezing with an elbow.
• Use handkerchiefs and wash them properly and if you use tissues, throw them instantly. 
• Make the children eat nutritious food and let them get enough sleep. 

Conclusion

Cold and cough among children is the most common condition that settles on their own and does not need any treatment. A good amount of rest, sleeping and eating well help a lot to support their immune system to get back to its original shape. Only if the symptoms do not go away, or they are severe, then you should definitely see the doctor.