Common Cold in Babies
Common Cold in Babies
Common cold is a viral infection mainly affecting the upper respiratory tract manifesting as runny nose and nasal congestion. Babies and infants are most susceptible to catching cold from older children and also because they have immature immune system.
Symptoms
Symptoms of this condition include
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Decrease appetite
- Irritability
- Sleeping problems
- Troubled feeding
Causes
Main cause of cold is the viral infection from rhinoviruses. As cold is caused by many virus even when baby become immune to virus there occur new strains of viruses which causes cold. Some viruses doesn’t lead to lifetime immunity. Baby can get infection from air, contaminated surfaces or direct contact with someone having cold.
Complications
- Otitis media which is acute ear infection
- Wheezing
- Sinusitis
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Croup
Treatment
No proper treatment is there for common cold. Over-the-counter medications are also not prescribed to the babies as it can cause serious side effects in the baby. Some fever controlling medications are given but with high control of dose.