A cold is common. A child who is uncomfortable doesn't have to stay that way
Children can catch many colds a year. A pediatric cold consultation confirms that it is just a cold, helps your child feel better, and tells you the signs that it's more than that.
Cold turning into a cough or breathing trouble? See the cough and respiratory infection pages for a closer look.
See Respiratory Infection Consultation →A cold is annoying, but it's usually harmless
Colds are caused by viruses and typically last about a week, though a cough can linger a little longer. There is no cure that makes a cold vanish faster, but a lot can be done to make your child comfortable, and to spot the complications early.
What a cold consultation covers
The aim is to confirm it's a cold, and rule out anything more.
Nose and throat
Blocked or runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and cough.
Fever and energy
Whether your child is bright and playing or unusually tired.
Ears and chest
Checking for ear infection and chest involvement, the common follow-ons.
Feeding and fluids
Whether your child is drinking and feeding well.
Sleep
A blocked nose can disturb sleep, and there are safe ways to help.
Comfort care
Simple measures that ease symptoms without unneeded medicines.
Get urgent help if a child with a cold
Don't wait for a routine appointment.
- Is breathing fast, noisily or with effort
- Is younger than three months with a fever
- Has a fever lasting more than a few days
- Is very drowsy, or won't feed or drink
- Has ear pain with discharge or a high fever
- Has symptoms that improve and then suddenly get worse
- Has a cough that lasts beyond several weeks
- Turns blue or pale around the lips
Comfort care for a cold
These simple measures work as well as, or better than, most remedies.
Rest and fluids
Plenty of rest and frequent drinks or feeds.
Clearing the nose
Saline drops or spray, gently, especially before feeds and sleep.
Comfortable surroundings
Fresh air, and no smoke around your child.
Careful with medicines
Many cold medicines aren't suitable for young children. Ask first.
What your child's visit includes
A conversation about the symptoms
When it started, what's changed, and how your child has been eating and sleeping.
A careful examination
Nose, throat, ears, chest and general condition.
Telling a cold from something else
Allergy, sinus or ear infection, and chest infection can look alike.
Practical care advice
What to do at home, what not to use, and what is safe for your child's age.
A clear warning-sign list
Exactly what should make you come back sooner.
What to bring
Helping the doctor see the full picture
Notes on symptoms
When it started and how it has changed.
Medicines or remedies you have tried
Including home remedies.
Others at home who are ill
Siblings, school or nursery contacts.
Past similar illnesses
Frequent colds or ear infections are worth mentioning.
Dr. K. Sushma
Dr. Sushma helps families get through the cold season with fewer worries, fewer unneeded medicines and a clear idea of what to watch for.
Questions parents often ask
Most colds clear in about a week, and a cough can linger for another week or two. If your child isn't improving, or is getting worse, come back for a check.
No. Colds are caused by viruses, which antibiotics don't help. They are only used if a bacterial complication is suspected.
Young children are exposed to many viruses, especially in school or nursery, and their immune systems are still learning. Frequent colds are usually normal, but frequent or severe ones should be assessed.
If your child is feeling well enough and has no fever, usually yes. Check the school's rules, and keep your child at home if they are unwell or feverish.
Another cold? Get some relief and some reassurance
Book a cold consultation with Dr. K. Sushma at our Pragathi Nagar clinic.
