Colds are caused by viruses. There are a large group of viruses which cause cold and
immunity acquired through infection against one virus does not protect against another
virus. So it is commonly seen that a small child catches cold very often, as there is no
cross immunity developed against the viruses.
Symptoms
a. |
Child develops a running, blocked nose accompanied by sneezing, sore
throat, cough and body ache. |
Treatment Advised
Since common cold is a viral infection and not a bacterial infection, antibiotics are not
of much use in the treatment unless there is a secondary bacterial infection after the
cold, e.g. in cases of Otitis Media (infection of ear). Usually nasal drops, steam
inhalations and local applications of a menthol rub or vapourizer is enough to relieve the
symptoms.
Sometimes in a severe cold, oral decongestants are given to alleviate the nasal
obstruction and congestion. Paracetamol can be given for Body ache and fever. Aspirin
should be avoided to prevent Reye's syndrome.
