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Symptom Checker

Colds in Children

A cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat. It commonly causes a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough.

Many different respiratory viruses can cause the common cold. Children can get repeated colds because immunity to one virus does not protect them from all of the others.

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AAP Guide to Colds in Children

The AAP guide below explains the usual course of a cold, what symptoms to watch for, and when your child needs care.

AAP Symptom CheckerColds

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child is breathing faster or harder than usual.
  • Your child is not drinking well or shows signs of dehydration.
  • Symptoms improve and then clearly become worse again.
  • Fever or other symptoms persist longer than expected.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has severe trouble breathing.
  • Your child’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
  • Your child is very difficult to wake.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on coughs and breathing

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