COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES AND CONDITIONS

UPPER RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS/COUGHS/COLDS

URI's and colds are caused by viruses and are common in children year round. Since they're viral, they can't be treated with antibiotics and usually last about 1 to 2 weeks. Symptoms may include a low grade fever, congestion, mild vomiting or diarrhea. Nasal discharge may become colored throughout the illness. This does not necessarily indicate a bacteria infection. Rest is the best "cure" you can offer your child.

HOME CARE:

• Give lots of clear liquids with calories, not just water
• Use a cool mist vaporizer or humidifier when sleeping
• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen if fever is present
• Don't overdress. Kids should wear weather-appropriate clothing.
• Use cough syrups carefully. We suggest only using them if your child has difficulty sleeping due to the cold.
• For congestion use saline nose drops (Ayr) or make nose drops by mixing 1/4 tsp. table salt and 1 c. water. Using a dropper, put 5-6 drops into each side of her nose. Wait about 1 minute and use a bulb syringe to suck out the mucus from the nose. Make fresh nose drops daily.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:

• Fever above 102° and persists over 24 hours
• Child becomes very irritable, looks sick or drinks very little fluids
• Wheezing, breathing fast, gasping, or croupy cough develop
• Cold persists over 10 days
• Decreased urination (children under 1 year who don't urinate for 8 hours and children over 1 year who don't urinate for 12 hours)