Cough, Cold & Flu
Cough, Cold & Flu Overview & Facts
Colds and flu are the most prevalent illnesses in pediatric demographics in America. Due to their extremely common natures, your child will likely contract some form of cough, cold, or flu every year. These conditions are not often serious, and can usually be treated at home. However, severe cases will need to be immediately addressed by a pediatrician.
Cough, Cold & Flu Symptoms & Types
The symptoms of a cough, cold, and flu are very similar and may be separated by their levels of severity.
Cough and cold symptoms include:
- Congestion in the chest or nose
- Coughing or sneezing
- Mild fever
Flu symptoms include:
- Severe sore throat
- Body aches or headaches
- High fever
Cough, Cold & Flu Causes
Children contract the pathogens forming a cough, cold, or flu from their friends, parents, or other infected children. Contaminated substances and surfaces are a common culprit. Virus chains mutate frequently, which means that your child may contract a different strain of the same illness multiple times.
Cough, Cold & Flu Treatment & Care
Most cough, cold, and flu illnesses will resolve themselves through receiving proper rest, food, and water. Children can be assisted in the healing process through over the counter medications or fever reducers. Ensure that you keep your child home from regular activities until their fever has subsided and their health returns. Should the illness continue to worsen or seem to accompany additional symptoms, contact a pediatrician immediately.
Cough, Cold & Flu Prevention
The best way to protect your child from contracting a cough, cold, or flu is to encourage them to use good judgment and exercise excellent health habits.
- Keep immune systems as high as possible.
- Consume foods high in vitamin C such as oranges.
- Refrain from touching your face with your hands before they are washed.
- Keep sick family members away from healthy ones.
- Sanitize the home thoroughly after a bout of illness.
If you have concerns over your child’s cough, cold or flu after your regular pediatrician’s office is closed for the day, or on the weekend, we invite you to visit our Midlothian AfterHours location. There is no appointment needed and we accept most major insurance plans.