COMMON INFECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD: COLDS (UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS): TREATMENT

Posted on Thursday, May 21st, 2009 at 7:09 am

There is no cure for the common cold. There is no specific treatment that will make the cold go away more quickly. You can help to relieve the child’s symptoms in a number of ways. Paracetamol in appropriate doses can be given if fever is present. (Do not give children aspirin — it can have potentially serious side effects. Lozenges (the cheapest one from the milk bar is just as good as the very expensive ones from the chemist) or warm drinks will ease a sore throat and dry mouth. Nasal drops or spray will ease a blocked nose. Decongestants are sometimes useful, but you must be aware of side effects such as rapid heart rate, jitteriness and insomnia. You should always consult your doctor before using them.

It is a good idea for the child to take things easy, though he does not need to stay in bed. Let your child decide how much activity he wishes to engage in. Although it is likely that he will not be hungry, make sure that he drinks lots of fluids. His appetite will return as he starts to feel better.

There are a number of treatments that are not necessary. Because colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics will not help, even though they are often prescribed. Not only are antibiotics (such as penicillin) unnecessary, but they can be harmful by causing stomach upsets and diarrhoea. Parents should always ask the doctor if a prescription is really necessary — all colds will get better without antibiotics, and just as quickly. Cough medicines are of no benefit — the cough is due to irritation of the trachea or to excess mucus, and cough medicine does not affect either. Similarly, there is no evidence that vitamin C is of any benefit.

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