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Common Colds

Symptoms include - watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, a stuffy, runny nose, mild fever and headache. These last about a week. Colds are caused by any of hundreds of viruses.

Cold medicines have been shown not to work and should not be given to children since they cause side effects and can be potentially harmful. Irrigation of the nose with saline solution, a healthy diet and fluids help. Milk does not make colds worse or mucus thicker. If your child is irritable, has a fever of 100.4 or higher or has any difficulty breathing or getting better from a cold, then you should make an appointment to see the pediatrician.