What's Up Doc? What can I do if my child gets a cold?

  • Published
  • By Maj. (Dr.) Amy Parker
  • 47th Medical Group
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  There is no cure for the common cold. There are only treatments for symptoms, some of which are listed below:

1) Nasal congestion: Nasal saline spray with good nose blowing or bulb suction if your child is unable to blow their nose. The spray can be bought over the counter at any pharmacy and the same "dose" can be used for all ages. 

2) Fever and/or body aches: Try ibuprofen (for children 6 months and older) and/or acetaminophen. 

3) Sore throat: Try ibuprofen (for 6 months and older) and/or acetaminophen and drink warm fluids. 

4) Coughing: Use a cool-mist humidifier and elevate the head for sleeping. 

5) Poor appetite: Ensure your child is drinking plenty of fluids and know that an appetite will return in a few days when they're feeling better.

Remember, over-the-counter cold remedies have been shown in scientific studies not to shorten the duration of colds or even help with symptoms. The Food and Drug Administration has recently published a warning against use of cough and cold medications in children younger than 2 and is reviewing the use of these same remedies in children 2 to 11 years old.