Children - cough and cold

Question 1

Cold

Answer 1

• Viral – children have no immunity so will get lots of colds a year
• Build immunity as they get older and get fewer colds
• 5- 7 days

Question 2

Cough

Answer 2

• Cough caused by mucus trickling down back of the throat.
• Will normally go away within 3 weeks on its own.
• Can be caused by colds, allergies, acid reflux.

Question 3

Red flag symptoms

Answer 3

• Very high temp, hot, shivery (chest infection)
• Cough worsening at night (asthma)
• Difficulty breathing

Question 4

Referral

Answer 4

• Cough > 3 weeks
• Bacterial rather than viral (need Abx)

Question 5

Treatment for cough and cold

Answer 5

Benylin Children’s Night Coughs

Question 6

Benylin Children’s Night Coughs

Answer 6

• 6-12 yrs
• Relieves cough and dries runny nose
• Diphenhydramine: antihistamine, relieves coughing and dry secretions in the nose and chest
• Levomenthol: helps breathe easier

Question 7

Non-Pharm Treatment for cough and cold

Answer 7

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Encourage whole family to wash hands regularly to stop spread
• Honey and lemon (1+)
• Raise babies head to help stuffy nose
• Use humidifier: moisture in the air will make it easier to breathe