NHS explains when a child with a cold needs medical attention

NHS explains when a child with a cold needs medical attention Here's what parents need to know about child cold symptoms and when to call 111, go to A&E, or dial 999 NHS guidelines share when a child with a cold needs to receive medical attention, as a number of so-called winter bugs take hold across the UK. Colds are hugely common, especially among children. This is because there are hundreds of different cold viruses and young children have no immunity to any of them as they have never had them before. They gradually develop immunity and experience fewer colds, and most colds in younger children clear up within two weeks. If your child has a cold, ensure they drink plenty of fluids and encourage the entire family to wash their hands regularly to prevent the cold from spreading. If your child has a high temperature and appears distressed, or is in pain or discomfort, children's paracetamol or ibuprofen can help, though children with asthma may not be able to take ibuprofen, so check with a pharmacist, GP or health visitor beforehand. Saline nose drops can help loosen dried mucus and ease a blocked nose. Speak to a pharmacist, GP or health visitor for advice. Children under 6 should not be given over-the-counter cough and cold remedies, including decongestants, unless recommended by a GP or pharmacist. When to seek medical attention if your child has a cold According to NHS advice, you should call 111 or see a GP if: - your child has a sore throat for more than 3 days, a high temperature (or feels hot, cold or shivery) and is generally unwell - your child has a cough, and a high temperature - or feels hot, cold, or shiver - as this could be a chest infection your child has a cough for more than three weeks - your child's cough persists for an extended period, particularly if it's worse at night or triggered by your child running around, as it could indicate asthma - your child has an earache that doesn't begin to improve after three days - you suspect your child has experienced hearing loss following an ear infection Go to A&E or call 999 if your child experiences any of the following: - a sore throat so severe that they are unable to swallow fluids or saliva, or they have any difficulty breathing. - coughs or other problems that mean they are struggling to breathe. - has croup - a distinctive barking cough with a harsh sound when breathing in (stridor) - and their symptoms are severe and they are struggling to breathe.