Colds are caused by viruses, which are extremely small infectious organisms (much smaller than bacteria).
A sneeze or a cough may directly transfer a virus from one person to another.
What are the symptoms of the common cold?
Once the virus is present and multiplying, your child will develop the familiar symptoms and signs:
• Runny nose (first, a clear discharge; later, a thicker, often colored one)
• Sneezing
• Mild fever (101–102 degrees Fahrenheit [38.3–38.9 degrees Celsius]), particularly in the evening
• Decreased appetite
• Sore throat and perhaps difficulty swallowing
• Cough
• On-and-off irritability
• Slightly swollen glands
• Pus on the tonsils, especially in children three years and older, may indicate a strep infection.
What are some treatment options?
Listen in as Corinn Cross, MD, shares the symptoms you should look out for in your child and how to treat them.