Colds are caused by viruses. There are about 200 different viruses that cause colds. Children can get 8 – 10 colds per year. Adults get fewer colds because they have built up immunity against some of the viruses. Antibiotics do not work against cold viruses.

Prevention:

Wash your hands to prevent spread of the viruses that cause colds.

Teach your children to wash their hands.

Wash objects and toys that are shared with others.

Symptoms:

Runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, cough and, at the beginning, headache, fever and watery eyes.

Fluid from the nose is clear at first but turns thick yellow or green within 2 – 3 days. This does not mean it is a bacterial infection.

Colds sometimes come with a cough, which can be worse at night.

A cold usually lasts for 4 – 7 days. It might take as long as three weeks to fully recover.

Treatment:

Drink plenty of fluids such as water or juice. Warm clear fluids such as soup will help the nose to drain. Offer these to your child if your child has a cold.

Get plenty of rest or allow your child to rest.

Use salt-water (saline) nose drops to treat stuffiness and cough, especially for infants and toddlers. Use commercial salt-water drops or spray or make your own.

A decongestant or cough syrup might help symptoms but will not shorten the length of the cold. NOTE: Do not give these products to infants or children under the age of six years without first talking with your doctor. NOTE: Decongestants and cough syrup might also contain fever reducing medication. Read labels carefully and check with your pharmacist or doctor to avoid overdosing.

Do not give these products to infants or children under the age of six years without first talking with your doctor. Decongestants and cough syrup might also contain fever reducing medication. Read labels carefully and check with your pharmacist or doctor to avoid overdosing. If you have a cold or are caring for someone with a cold, wash your hands often to prevent infecting others.

For further information on Fever, please see More Fever Links.

Salt Water Drops

Mix together:

½ cup (125 ml) warm water*

¼ tsp non-iodized salt

You may add:

¼ tsp baking soda

Prepare fresh every day.

Position child so that head is slightly back.

Use a medicine dropper to put 1 – 2 drops in each nostril.

Repeat 4 to 5 times per day.

*Use water that has been filtered, distilled or boiled for one minute and allowed to cool.

When to seek medical attention:

Children: See your doctor if your child’s. . .

Fever returns or symptoms worsen 5-10 days after first becoming sick.

Yellow or green nasal discharge lasts longer than 10 days.

Adults: Adults should consult their doctor, nurse practitioner or provincial health help line if symptoms worsen or are unusually severe.