Symptoms of a cold in children

Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
Updated on February 17, 2025
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Children's cold, also known as acute upper respiratory tract infection in children, is the most common disease among children. It mainly refers to the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, nasopharynx, and pharynx, leading to acute rhinitis, acute pharyngitis, and acute tonsillitis, collectively referred to as such. After catching a cold, children can exhibit local symptoms, primarily manifesting as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, mild cough, discomfort in the throat, or sore throat. Systemic symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which often appears as spasmodic periumbilical pain without tenderness. In infants and young children, local symptoms are not severe, but systemic symptoms are more significant. A general physical examination can reveal congestion in the throat, swelling of the tonsils, and enlargement of the lymph nodes in the jaw and neck area.

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Written by Guo Xiao Yun
Pulmonology
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Can I drink milk when I have a cold?

During a cold, it is okay to drink milk because milk contains abundant proteins, various trace elements, and minerals that can supplement the body's nutrition, boost the immune system, and facilitate recovery from the cold. However, during a cold, it is advised not to drink cold milk but to drink warm milk instead, as gastrointestinal function is also weakened during a cold. Drinking cold milk might irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Moreover, it is important not to drink excessive amounts of milk during a cold. Drinking a moderate amount of milk is acceptable, as too much milk can increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. Besides drinking milk, consuming fresh vegetables and fruits and drinking plenty of warm water can also help speed up recovery from a cold.

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Written by Han Shun Li
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How long does it take to recover from a cold?

The common cold is one of the most frequently seen diseases in clinical settings, caused by viral infections. The most prevalent symptoms are nasal, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Additionally, there can be discomfort in the throat, coughing, and some patients may experience mild fever, chills, and headaches. Generally, the natural course of a cold is about five to seven days, so it's possible to recover from a cold within a week. However, since there are currently no specific medications for treating the common cold, it is important to rest, avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of water, quit smoking, and ensure good ventilation in the room to aid recovery from a cold.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How many days does it take to recover from a cold?

How long does a cold last? Normally, a common cold can recover within 5-7 days. Influenza might have a slightly longer duration, generally requiring 7-10 days to resolve. The specific situation also depends on the virulence of the cold virus, the body's immune capability, the amount of virus, and the body’s resistance. There are some clinical variations. The common cold itself is a contagious, self-limiting disease, caused by viral infections like influenza or parainfluenza, leading to respiratory infections. The main treatment involves drinking plenty of water, resting, symptom management, and preventing complications.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Pediatric colds are classified into several types.

Child colds, also known as acute upper respiratory infections, are acute inflammations of the upper respiratory tract caused by various pathogens. Child colds are mainly caused by bacterial and viral infections, with over 90% being viral. The main viruses involved include rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, Coxsackie virus, echovirus, adenovirus, and coronaviruses. Viral infections can lead to secondary bacterial infections, with the most common bacterial infections being from Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. Additionally, Mycoplasma pneumoniae not only can cause pneumonia but is also a cause of upper respiratory infections, and its incidence has been increasing in recent years. Therefore, when a child has a cold, it's also important to consider the possibility of a Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Symptoms of childhood cold and encephalitis

Some common symptoms of encephalitis secondary to a cold in children primarily include fever, usually moderate to high, though some may exhibit low fever. Next, symptoms such as headache, dizziness, primarily around the forehead, crown, or occipital region, may occur. This is followed by vomiting, which is generally more evident after eating or drinking, with some exhibiting persistent vomiting. Additionally, some may experience lethargy, weakness, or even seizures.