When Should I Worry About Cold Symptoms?

Ah…Ah…Ah…Choo! Runny nose, stuffy nose, sore throat, cough body aches… yep, it sounds like the common cold. No big deal, right? Usually that is the case. But when should you worry that it’s more than “just a cold?”

First, let’s look at what a cold is. It is an infection caused by a virus, not a bacteria. That is the reason antibiotics are not helpful. Over-the-counter cold medicines are generally not helpful either (and not recommended at all for children under the age of 2 years). OTC products may alleviate symptoms for a few hours but will not cure the cold. But the good news is that a cold is usually self-limiting, that is, it will resolve on its own, with time, under the direction of the body’s amazing immune system.

Infrequently, complications of a cold virus ensue. Ear infections and pneumonia are examples. A child’s behavior is one of the best indicators of severity of illness. Remember, when a child is ill with a cold they may not be as playful and may sleep a little more than usual. After all, the body’s immune system is working hard to conquer this virus! One sign that a child is getting worse is if there is a significant decline in play and increase in sleepiness. Children are fussy and clingy when they don’t feel well (so are grownups!) Any significant increase in fussiness and difficulty consoling a child is worrisome.

Many children will lose their appetite for solid food when they don’t feel well. As long as they are drinking enough fluid to urinate once every 6 hours they will be hydrated. When they refuse to drink or are unable to tolerate anything by mouth because of vomiting, that is a worrisome sign.

If a child’s cough is getting worse or he/she is working hard to breathe, that is a worrisome sign.

In general, a cold lasts 7-10 days. Yellow or green mucous is normal with a cold. When it drags on longer than that or is getting worse over time instead of better, a visit to your  provider is a good idea.

Fever also is common with a cold virus. Please review the “Fever” FAQ for more info.

Children under the age of 2 years, especially young infants should be evaluated promptly at the first indication of any of the worrisome signs.

Ultimately nobody knows their child as well as you, their parent/caregiver. If you feel your child is getting sicker, even if you cannot put your finger on it, give us a call! We are here to listen and help.