Colds and Coughs in Children

6 January 2025

Colds and coughs are common illnesses in children, particularly during winter months and are normally highly infectious. Find out the causes, prevention and when to see a doctor.

What are Colds and Coughs?

Colds and coughs are common respiratory infections that affect children of all ages. These infections are typically caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and airways, leading to a range of symptoms including:

Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Coughing
Sore throat
Mild fever
Fatigue or irritability

Causes of Colds and Coughs

Colds and coughs are primarily caused by viral infections, with several different viruses responsible for these common childhood illnesses. The most frequent culprits include rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, coronaviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These viruses are highly contagious and can spread easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches surfaces with contaminated hands.

Transmission and Prevention

Colds and coughs are most contagious during the first few days of illness when symptoms are most severe. To help prevent the spread of colds and coughs, you can:

Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, or after coughing or sneezing.
Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
Avoid close contact with sick individuals and keep children home from school or daycare when they are feeling unwell to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys, doorknobs, and countertops, to minimize the spread of viruses.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While colds and coughs are usually mild and self-limiting, you should seek medical advice if your child experiences any of the following:

Difficulty breathing or wheezing, which may indicate a more severe respiratory infection or underlying asthma.
High fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C) lasting more than a few days, which may suggest a bacterial infection requiring medical evaluation and treatment.
Persistent coughing that disrupts sleep or lasts longer than two weeks, as this could be a sign of bronchitis or pneumonia.
Ear pain or drainage from the ears, which may indicate an ear infection (otitis media) that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or lethargy, which can occur if your child is not drinking enough fluids.

Treatment and Home Remedies

While there is no cure for the common cold, you can help alleviate your child’s symptoms and promote comfort by:

Encouraging rest and plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or herbal teas, to stay hydrated and loosen mucus.
Using a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer in your child’s room to soothe irritated nasal passages and relieve congestion.
Administering over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve discomfort if your child is older than six months.
Using saline nasal drops or sprays to help clear nasal congestion and improve breathing, especially before feedings or bedtime.
Providing warm fluids such as chicken soup or herbal teas with honey to soothe a sore throat and alleviate coughing in older children (avoid honey in children younger than one year due to the risk of botulism).

Preventing Complications

While colds and coughs are usually mild and self-limiting, they can sometimes lead to complications such as:

Ear infections (otitis media) if nasal congestion blocks the Eustachian tubes, leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear.
Sinus infections (sinusitis) if nasal congestion and inflammation persist, causing pain and pressure in the sinuses.
Bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in children with weakened immune systems or underlying respiratory conditions, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis.
To prevent complications, monitor your child’s symptoms closely and seek prompt medical attention if you notice any signs of worsening illness or respiratory distress.

Conclusion

Colds and coughs are common childhood illnesses that can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities. By practicing good hygiene, teaching children proper respiratory etiquette, and providing supportive care at home, you can help alleviate symptoms, prevent the spread of infection, and promote your child’s recovery.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

To discuss any issues related to coughs and colds in children make an appointment with one of our private GPs. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our Buckinghamshire hospital, or live locally.

Should you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £125.

Any additional costs will always be discussed. They could apply if you are referred for an MRI scan, or to a consultant, or for other agreed decisions to support your health.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.