COLDS

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Main Symptoms

• Runny or stuffy nose
• The nasal discharge may be clear, cloudy, yellow or green
• Usually associated with fever and sore throat
• Sometimes associated with a cough, hoarseness, watery eyes, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Cause

• Colds are caused by viruses.  Influenza is just a bad cold with more fever and muscle aches.  Healthy children average 6 colds a year.
• Colds are not serious.  Between 5 and 10% of children develop a bacterial complication (ear or sinus infection).

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Runny nose caused by allergies, see HAY FEVER
• Cough is the main symptom, see COUGH
• Over age 5 and pain around the eye or over the cheekbone, see SINUS PAIN OR CONGESTION

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

See Other Topics:

• Cough
• Hay Fever (Nose Allergies)
• Sinus Pain and Congestion

View Anatomic Index of Topics