As colder weather approaches, parents are bracing for the inevitable wave of common colds in children. Dr. Simona Dumitra, Head of the Clinical Pediatrics Section II at Arad County Hospital, is offering guidance on recognizing typical cold symptoms, but also emphasizes the importance of knowing when a child’s illness requires medical attention. The doctor recently outlined key facts regarding childhood colds – including transmission, symptoms by age, and potential complications – in a Facebook post by the hospital, offering a valuable resource for concerned families.While most colds are mild,understanding warning signs like high fever or prolonged symptoms is crucial for ensuring a child’s swift recovery.
The common cold is the most frequent respiratory illness in children, particularly during colder months, but parents should be aware of certain warning signs, according to Dr. Simona Dumitra, Head of the Clinical Pediatrics Section II at Arad County Hospital. These include high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, or excessive sleepiness.
Dr. Dumitra recently shared clarifications and recommendations regarding the common cold in children in a post on the hospital’s Facebook page.
”The simplest and most common respiratory illness is the common cold. The common cold is a viral infection that is particularly noticeable during the cold season, clinically characterized by a predominant effect on the nose and throat. In more than half of cases, the cause is dominated by 200 types of rhinoviruses. Other pathogens involved include respiratory syncytial virus, metapneumovirus, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses and coronaviruses,” Dr. Dumitra explained.
According to Dr. Dumitra, colds can occur in any season, but are more frequent from the beginning of autumn to the end of spring. This information is important for parents to understand seasonal patterns of illness in children.
”Until the age of three, children can have six to eight colds a year! Do not classify a large number of colds at a young age as immunodeficiency… It is the way the body trains its immune system. Regarding the transmission of the disease, the viruses involved spread through direct contact with secretions on surfaces or contaminated objects, utensils, towels, toys or phones, by inhaling small particles of aerosols expelled through sneezing or speaking. Viruses enter the body through the nose, mouth or eyes,” the doctor noted, according to News.ro.
Symptoms Vary Depending on Age
According to the pediatrician, the clinical picture varies depending on age: ”Infants present with fever and nasal secretions. Fever is not characteristic of older children. Onset occurs 1-3 days after infectious contact through: sore throat in the form of a prickle, discomfort when swallowing, nasal obstruction, runny nose. The pharynx heals quickly, maintaining nasal symptoms. Cough may be associated from the third day, and in some cases may persist for up to two weeks.”
Dr. Dumitra also noted that symptoms such as headache, vomiting, diarrhea, irritability, and feeding disorders may also be experienced in younger children.
Read also: How to keep the flu at bay. What is the most effective prevention method recommended by doctors
Colds with Complications
”It should be mentioned that in some cases, the common cold can lead to certain complications such as: sinusitis – manifested by persistent secretions in the nose, sometimes headache, dizziness; otitis – ear pain; exacerbation of asthma.”
Even though it is the mildest respiratory condition, parents should be attentive to certain warning signs:
- fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F) in infants under three months;
- fever over 39.5°C (103.1°F) in children of any age;
- fever lasting more than two days in a child under two years old and three days in an older child;
- decreased fluid intake;
- vomiting;
- diarrhea;
- sleepiness;
- different behavior;
- severe headache; ear pain;
- the appearance of a rash or hemorrhagic red spots.
At these signs, a family doctor should be consulted immediately,” the doctor added.
Simple Rules for a Cold
Simona Dumitra also mentioned that the common cold is easy to treat, and a few simple rules are very helpful:
- observing hygiene is essential;
- ensuring optimal microclimate conditions: the optimal temperature is 64-72°F (18-21°C), and humidity is 40-70%;
- if the air is dry, a humidifier will relieve congestion and cough;
- the humidifier should be kept clean to prevent the development of germs or mold;
- adequate hydration to thin nasal secretions;
- there is no evidence to justify the administration of antibiotics for colds or purulent nasal secretions lasting more than 10 days;
- avoiding passive smoking;
- letting the child sleep – they will recover through sleep;
- visiting the family doctor for a correct diagnosis and adequate treatment!
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