Colds, so annoying 2015/07/24

Whether we are children, young adults or adults, having a cold is always a bother!

The cold is the nasal discharge of viral origin that affects the respiratory tracks. Viruses that cause the cold are around 200 different types, which means 200 vaccines would be needed…

This is the reason why a specific vaccine doesn’t exist to fight this disease. Nevertheless, something that is possible, is to treat the symptoms to mitigate them until full recovery. The symptoms are constant nasal discharge, sneezing, congestion or ‘stuffy nose’ (difficulty breathing), watery eyes, cough and sometimes slight fever. It lasts about a week, but if the symptoms persist or get worse, it is better to listen to the pediatrician’s opinion.

An adult handles it better, they can use decongestant spray, blow their nose… but babies only breathe with their nose: they will learn later that they can also use their mouth if necessary. Therefore, a stuffy nose, represents a great obstacle during feeding or sleeping, also causing apnea moments.

So, how can we help our children?

Perform frequent nasal washes with physiological water or ocean water (available in pharmacies). A nasal aspirator could also be very effective.

Drink water in small doses: ingested liquids help the mucus to become fluid and therefore it drains easier.

Humidify the room, since fresh air dries up the mucus membranes giving it the “closed” feeling.

Remember that the ideal environmental temperature is between 18º - 20º C. If possible, leave the humidifier in winter season, for those who have radiators as heating, place a humid towel on top of it when it is on.

Place a pillow under the mattress to elevate the head and chest slightly regarding the body, it makes secretions flow better.

Thanks to the vapor action, sprays show to be an excellent ally, even just with physiological water: for the addition specific decongestants or cortisone, consult your pediatrician.

Use disposable tissues which are much more hygienic, although you can irritate the delicate nose of babies. If so, use moisturizing cream.

Blowing ones nose is not an easy task for children, but make it as if it is a game: first with the mouth to understand the mechanism, then let them hold their hands in front of their face and try with the nose.

For the use of creams on menthol pastes to extend along their chest or soles of the foot, consult the pediatrician, since it isn’t recommended for children under the age of 3.

Remember that these are general guidelines: for any clarification or question, consult your child’s pediatrician.