What's New - Coughs and Colds   Coughs and Colds (Last Updated: )   COUGHS AND COLDS SPREAD DISEASES! As winter approaches we look at childhood colds and coughs, what we can do to minimise symptoms, when to seek medical advice and how to prevent the spread of the virus. Most coughs and colds in healthy babies, toddlers and children aren’t serious and they generally get better in a few days. The common symptoms of a cough and cold are the cough and a runny nose. The child may have a raised temperature, sore throat, earache, and headache and be lethargic and off their food. The symptoms are often worse for 2-3 days and make’s the child miserable, then the symptoms ease although an irritating cough may linger. There is no magic cure for the common cold and treatment is aimed at relieving the symptoms rather than curing. As most coughs and colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics are ineffective. Regular paracetamol will help to reduce a temperature and ease a headache. Ibuprofen can at the same time, alternating with paracetamol to give 24hours cover. Remember to give only the recommended dose. Encourage your child to have plenty of drinks and to keep warm by wearing several thin layers of clothes and removing a layer if they get too hot. Children should get plenty of rest and sleep and take it easy if they feel unwell. They should be kept away from nursery and school until they feel better. Most coughs and colds get better without complications. However you should seek medical advice if your child has a persistent high temperature or does not seem to be getting better. Coughs and colds are caused by viruses. When your child coughs or sneezes they send tiny droplets of infected saliva into the air. To prevent the spread of the virus encourage children and adults to ‘catch it, bin it and kill it’. Children should use disposable tissues and cover their mouth and nose EVERY time they cough and sneeze. Use the tissue once and then throw it in the bin. Encourage your child to wash their hands regularly. Plenty of fresh air and exercise as well as a healthy diet will boost your child’s immune system and may help prevent coughs and colds. DISCLAIMER: This article is provided by an emergency nurse trainer on behalf of R.E.D.I. Training Ltd for general information and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. R.E.D.I. Training Ltd is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken by, a user based on this information.     Return To Previous Page