Colds are caused by viruses. They spread when people breathe, sneeze or cough on other people. Colds last about 1 to 2 weeks. Colds cannot be treated with antibiotics.

There are several signs that you have a cold:

• a stuffy, runny nose
• cough
• sneezing
• fever
• not hungry – loss of appetitie

To be more comfortable, you can:

• Drink plenty of liquids (especially water).
• If you have a stuffy nose, put two drops of normal saline (salt water) in each side of your nose. You can buy “saline nasal spray” at the drug store without a prescription.
• Blow your nose to gently remove drainage, especially before you eat or go to sleep.
• Take a bath when you need one
• Watch for signs of infection:
  • fever 102°F (39°C) that lasts more than two days
  • earache
  • sore throat
  • trouble swallowing
  • vomiting
  • trouble breathing
• No smoking in your home or around you.
• Wash your hands frequently and have everyone in your family wash their hands frequently to prevent the spread of illness.

Call your doctor or the Children’s Mercy Information Line, (816) 234-3188 if:

• you have any signs of infection or other symptoms.
• you are asthma and are having increased asthma symptoms.
• you are unable to drink
• you have questions or concerns about your illness.

Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics

Kansas City,Missouri                                                       Overland Park,Kansas

Care cards are provided as a public education service. The information does not replace instructions your physician gives you. If you have questions about your child's care, please call your physician.

Estas instruccions son provistas como un servicio educacional. La information no sustituye las instrucciones de su medico. Si tiene preguntas encuanto al duidado de su niño, por favor llame a su medico.