Kids Common Cold Treatment in Greater Noida

What is Common Cold - Common Cold in Children?

Common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, basically the nose and throat. It is one of the more common diseases in children and aggravates during the winter season. Though this is taken to be a generally mild disease, the symptoms turn out to be irritating for your child. An understanding of the common cold itself helps parents manage such symptoms and minimize any further risk of its transmission to people. This guide gives you all the helpful information and tips on common cold by Dr Vivek Shyam , along with how to support your kid through the course of this disease.

Causes and Transmission of Common Cold in Newborns

A number of viruses usually cause the common cold. Of these, the most common are rhinoviruses. Newborns and young children quickly become a target because their immune systems are not developed yet. The cold virus quickly spreads from one person to another, especially when in close contact. Here are common ways in which it may spread:

• Airborne Transmission: When a person with a cold coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets of the virus are propelled into the air.
• Direct Contact: The infection is caused by nose and mouth contact after touching something or a surface contaminated with the cold virus.
• Close Contact: Sharing food, drink, etc., shaking hands, hugging, or any close contact with the infected encourages the transmission.

Now, to save your child from the infection, keep them away from those persons who have cold symptoms and make sure frequent washing of hands is carried out.

Common Cold: Signs and Symptoms

The onset of a common cold usually begins with irritation in the throat, and other signs and symptoms may follow. Following are some of the common signs that you may look for:

• Runny or Stuffy Nose: This is one of the first typical signs.
• Cough: The child may have developed a dry or wet cough.
• Sneezing: They are very liable to sneeze frequently.
• Fever: A slight fever may rise, but it usually is mild.
• Fatigue: Your child may be more tired than usual.
• Sore Throat: It is generally scratchy or sore, especially at the initial stages.
• Headache: Cold sometimes occurs with mild headaches.
• Loss of Appetite: Sometimes, a child eats less because of decreased appetite.

These symptoms usually peak in the first days and then gradually get better.

Duration and Stages of Common Cold

The duration of the common cold is generally between 7 and 10 days. Stages regarding the cold may be explained as follows, which will help you to deal with those symptoms of your child effectively:

• Incubation Period (1-3 Days): This is the time from the occurrence of exposure to the virus to when the first symptoms are shown. During this period, your child will not show symptoms.
• Onset of Symptoms: Early symptoms, such as a sore throat or runny nose, start to appear on days 1 and 2.
• Peak Symptoms: Cough, sneezing, and congestion worsen on days 3 and 4.
• Recovery Phase: The remission of symptoms sets in, and your child starts feeling well.
• Lingering Symptoms: The cough and cold may still be there but slowly wear off.

Preventive Tips and Home Care Treatments

Although the common cold does not have any cure, the proper precautionary measures can prevent it and can be managed at home. Here are some tips to deal with the common cold in children:

• Hand Hygiene: Encourage your child to wash hands frequently using soap and water.
• Avoid Close Contact: Sick people should be kept away from children.
• Healthy Diet: A diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables helps build immunity.
• Hydrate: Let your child take plenty of fluids to keep them hydrated.
  Using a Humidifier: A cool mist humidifier can ease breathing and soften an irritated throat.
• Rest: Let your child have plenty of rest so that the body fights the infection.
• Honey: A spoonful of honey can be a good cough suppressant for children over one year old.

If you have more grievous symptoms or suspicions, it’s better to consult a pediatrician in Noida.

Myths and Facts About the Common Cold

There are many myths concerning the common cold. Here are just a few myths and their associated facts:

Myth: Going outside in cold weather causes a cold.

Fact: Colds are caused by viruses, not the cold weather.

Myth: Antibiotics will cure a cold.
Fact: Antibiotics are only effective in treating bacterial infections, not viruses.

Myth: Wet hair can give you a cold.
Fact: Wet hair has nothing to do with the issue; only the viruses do.

Knowing these facts will better prepare you to make informed decisions about your child’s care.

When to Connect with Your Pediatrician Doctor

Although most colds are not severe, there are times when it’s essential to take your child to a doctor:

• High Fever: If the fever is over 101°F and lasts for more than three days.
• Troubled Breathing: If the child has difficulty breathing or is wheezing.
• Lingering Symptoms: If symptoms last longer than ten days or worsen.
• Ear Pain: If your child complains of ear pain, it could indicate an ear infection.
• Unusual Drowsiness: If your child is very sleepy or unresponsive.

If any of the above comes to the fore, contact your pediatrician as soon as possible.

Building Immunity in Children

Building a robust immune system will help your child fight off infections, including the common cold. Here are a few tips:

• Breastfeeding: For newborns, it can provide critical antibodies.
• Balanced Diet: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be part of your child’s diet.
• Physical Activity: Engage your child in physical activities regularly to increase immunity.
• Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep every night.
• Vaccinations: Keep your child up to date with vaccinations.

These practices may alleviate colds in frequency and intensity.

Book an Appointment

If your child is suffering from a common cold and you are unaware of the proper treatment, consult a professional without any delay. You can book an appointment with a Pediatrician clinic in Greater Noida West at the ShobhaShyam Pediatrics Clinic and get customized treatment for your child. This will help to avoid further complications and to help your child recover as soon as possible.