It is a self-limited upper respiratory tract infection that affects all ages.
It is caused by viruses that are transmitted by droplets of saliva that are released by sneezing and coughing, or by objects that have been contaminated with the saliva or mucus of the infected child.
It manifests with liquid nasal mucus, cough and sometimes sore throat or low fever.
Diagnosis is clinical, by questioning and physical examination; confirmatory tests are not required.
Symptoms alone should be treated, without the need for antibiotics as it is a viral infection. Drug treatment is not usually necessary.
Proper hydration should be maintained with adequate intake of warm fluids. Nasal lavage with saline solution is recommended, especially in younger children. An air humidifier can be used to regulate the quality of the air breathed.
- Diane E Pappas. The common cold in children: Management and prevention. UpToDate, Junio 2016
- Diane E Pappas. The common cold in children: Clinical features and diagnosis. UpToDate, Noviembre 2015
- Heikkinen T. The common cold. Lancet 2003; 361:51.
- Pappas DE. The common cold and decongestant therapy. Pediatr Rev 2011; 32:47.
- Michael A. Rubin. Faringitis, otalgia y síntomas de la porción superior de las vías respiratorias. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 44
