The common cold is a contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses. Most people get a cold once in a while, but children can catch them at least eight times in a year, making colds the most common reason why they miss school and visit the doctor.

What causes cold in children?

Most common colds are caused by a virus known as rhinovirus. These invisible beings are transported in small droplets that float in the air or settle on surfaces. When a child comes in contact with this virus, it causes the lining in the nose and throat to become inflamed, leading to a runny nose, sore throat, headaches and even fever.

Dry air can increase the chances of children catching a cold because it makes the nasal lining more susceptible to infections. Being around a smoker can also increase the chances of a child catching a cold. Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust and smoke irritates the air canals and leads to a runny nose among other symptoms.

What are the symptoms of a cold in children?

When a child starts to develop a cold, the most they can tell you is that they feel unwell. The most common symptoms of the common cold are sore throat, cough, runny nose and headache. As the cold gets worse, more symptoms start to develop, such as:

• Watery eyes
• Crusty eyes
• Watery mucous in the nose
• Fatigue
• Sneezing
• Fever

The common cold can affect your child’s throat, sinuses, ears and bronchial tubes. In some severe cases, the child can also develop nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

How is a child’s cold treated?

The common cold is a viral infection, so a doctor will prescribe medications to help your child feel better. Most colds clear up on their own, so it is best to wait for the symptoms to subside.