By Robert Dabrow, MD, FAAP, Medical Director

What causes cough, runny nose, and other common cold symptoms? A viral infection usually causes these symptoms. Many viruses can live and grow inside your nose, mouth, throat, or bronchioles and cause cold symptoms.

What are some symptoms of the common cold? Sneezing, coughing, sniffling, and runny nose. You occasionally may have a sore throat and chest congestion.

Why does my child always have a runny nose? Children in daycare have an average of 6 colds/year. Colds usually last longer in children, up to 10 days, but some children have symptoms for up to 2 weeks.

When do I need to see the pediatrician? Most people with colds do not need to see a doctor or nurse. But you should call our office if you have any of the following: Chronic runny or stuffy nose that does not get better after two weeks; severe red eyes or yellow-green discharge coming out of their eyes; or painful ear or head pain. If a cough or fever lasts longer than ten days, it is a good idea to be examined.

How can I tell if I have a cold or the flu? The common cold and the flu both cause many of the same symptoms. But they also have some important differences. A common cold causes severe nasal congestion, mild cough, and fever, usually without other symptoms. The Flu causes
extremely high fevers and fatigue with aches and pains, usually followed by a runny nose, cough, and congestion.

How can I keep from getting another cold? The most important thing you can do is to wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol hand rubs work well, too. The germs that cause the common cold can live on tables, door handles, and other surfaces for at least 2 hours. You never know when you might be touching germs. That’s why it’s so important to clean your hands.

Celebration Pediatrics offers SAME-DAY-SICK appointments. To schedule an appointment, call us at 877.595-5113