Self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that affects people of all ages.
The causative viruses are spread by droplets of saliva expelled by sneezing and coughing, or by objects contaminated with the infected child's saliva or mucus.
Symptoms include runny nose, cough and sometimes a sore throat or low-grade fever.
The diagnosis is made clinically, by interview and physical examination. No confirmatory tests are needed.
Only the symptoms need to be treated and antibiotics are not necessary as it is a viral infection. Medication is not usually needed.
Patients should drink plenty of warm fluids to keep hydrated. Nasal irrigation with saline solution is recommended, especially in young children. A humidifier may be used to improve the quality of the air.
- 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
