COLDS

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR COLDS

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)

Severe difficulty breathing (struggling for each breath, unable to speak or cry because of difficulty breathing, making grunting noises with each breath)

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

Your child looks or acts very sick
Difficulty breathing not relieved by cleaning out the nose
Fever > 104°F (40° C)
Age < 12 weeks with fever > 100.4°F (38° C) rectally

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

You think your child needs to be seen
Earache or cloudy discharge from ear canal
Yellow or green eye discharge
Sinus pain or pressure (around cheekbone or eyes)
Severe sore throat present > 24 hours
Fever present > 3 days
Fever returns after going away > 24 hours

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns
Blocked nose interferes with sleep after using nasal washes several times
Yellow scabs around the nasal openings
Nasal discharge present >10 days

Parent Care at Home If

Mild cold and you don't think your child needs to be seen

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.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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