How to handle colds and common illnesses?

Baby's development and growth

Managing Colds and Common Illnesses

Intricate Vulnerability of Young Children

Infants and very young children often lack prior exposure to cold and flu viruses, rendering them more susceptible to infection.

It's important to recognize that children can succumb to illness more swiftly than adults.

Decoding Cold Symptoms

Manifestations of a cold may encompass:

Congested or runny nasal passages
Sneezing
Soreness in the throat and ears
Dry cough
Headache
Red, irritated eyes
Swelling of lymph nodes

A few children might develop fever, accompanied by feelings of illness, vomiting, appetite loss, or heightened irritability.

Typically, these symptoms endure for around a week.

It may continue for up to 2 weeks, with a thicker nasal congestion and a wet cough due to this throat discharge.

It usually disappears spontaneously.

If, in addition, there is pain and redness in the throat (at pharyngeal level) from day one, this is rhinopharyngitis.

This infection of the nose and throat is almost always viral before three years old. Benign, it is easily treated.

Unveiling Flu Signs

The flu, or influenza, is an ailment caused by a virus, resembling a cold but potentially leading to grave complications.

Symptoms in children with the flu may overlap with those of a cold, fever of 39-40°, chills, fatigue, aches and pains, headaches, loss of appetite, along with muscle discomfort, chills, and alternating hot and cold sensations and respiratory symptoms like cough, runny nose, sore throat.

Children at risk of severe forms or complications are early premature infants and children suffering from heart disease, chronic asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, immune deficiencies or severe obesity.

Prompt Medical Attention: When to Seek Help

Most colds naturally resolve without intervention. However, there are instances where complications arise, such as ear infections, laryngitis, croup, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia.

Occasionally, a persistent cough might signify asthma rather than a cold.

If your child consistently coughs during winter, or their cough worsens with exercise or appears predominantly at night, asthma could be a possibility.

Urgent medical consultation is advised when your infant or young child displays:

A high fever (Immediate medical attention for any fever in a baby under 3 months)
Fever returns after a few days
A cough exceeding 3 weeks
Incessant coughing or vomiting
Wheezing
Breathing difficulties or rapid breathing
Bluish or excessively pale skin
Blue Lips
Reluctance or inability to feed
Lethargy
Reduced fluid intake
Excessive vomiting
Severe headache
Paleness accompanied by drowsiness
A persistent rash that remains visible under pressure
Deterioration of the illness or escalating distress
Pus in the eyes
Thick yellowish or greenish nasal discharge lasting more than 10 to 15 days
Behavioral problems (child sleepy, irritable, inconsolable).

Managing Cold and Flu in Infants: The Approach

For infants with upper respiratory tract infections, frequent sniffling and occasional coughing may occur.

Although the baby might seem to breathe comfortably, nasal congestion can hinder feeding. Adequate feeding is pivotal to prevent dehydration and weight loss.

Infants with colds and flu necessitate:

Regular nose washing with saline or a seawater-based spray, as often as you feel your child "purring" or clogged, (6 to 10 times a day if necessary), and always before meals and bedtime
Tender cuddles and reassurance
More frequent, smaller feeds
Check the temperature
Take your child outside for fresh air
Ventilate his room well at night
Extra rest
Additional sleep

In the event of fever, avoid over-covering the child, and make sure your child drinks regularly.

Fever is beneficial and speeds healing. It requires no treatment as long as it is well tolerated. In the opposite case, paracetamol can be suggested, with a maximum of four doses per day if necessary (it's essential to adhere to recommended dosage guidelines).

Coughing releases mucus from the airways.

It's vital to respect it: don't give cough medicines.

Syrups are rather harmful and can cause significant aggravation.

Antihistamines are not effective against colds.

Concluding Notes: A Recap on Care

Cold and flu symptoms tend to improve within 7 to 10 days.
This is a viral disease, and antibiotics are unnecessary, except in cases of bacterial superinfection: ear infections, pneumopathies...
Stay vigilant for breathing difficulties and potential secondary infections during cold or flu episodes.
Paracetamol, by lowering fever and reducing muscular pain and headaches during the flu, improves the child's comfort, but the fever helps the healing process.
Consult a healthcare provider for all pediatric medications.