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Welcome To The Clinic At Sope Creek Elementary School! |
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Cold Flu or Allergies?
Many people use the term flu and cold interchangeably however they are very different diseases.
Cold symptoms may start with sneezing, congestion, and an occasional low-grade fever. Eventually mild to moderate chest discomfort and a cough may set in with mild fatigue. Sore throat may be present. Complications of a cold are usually less severe than that of the flu such as an ear or sinus infection. Influenza (the "Flu") usually has an acute onset. A sudden high fever and severe body aches are its hallmark. A headache may be prominent and photophobia (sensitivity to light) may be present. Fatigue and/or exhaustion may present early and last for weeks. Cough and chest discomfort can be severe. Complications such as pneumonia and bronchitis can be life threatening. Allergic diseases can manifest themselves in many different forms such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, dermatitis and conjunctivitis. Allergic Rhinitis, commonly called "hay fever," is an irritation of the nose where the inside of the nose becomes inflamed after being exposed to an allergic trigger. It often is associated with asthma and sinusitis. Common symptoms are watery eyes, sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes and nose. Children who have allergic rhinitis may have dark circles under their eyes. They may use the palm of their hand to push the nose up in an attempt to relieve itching This known as the "allergic salute." Because both asthma and allergic rhinitis are diseases that affect the airways, controlling rhinitis will help control symptoms in people who also have asthma.
Colds, the flu, strep throat and other common illnesses are passed through contact such as coughing and sneezing. Preventive measures which help the body's immune system to function properly and help fight off infections include:
As colds and the flu are viral, antibiotics are useless in treating them. Getting the flu shot is another method of prevention for certain types of influenza. This is particularly recommended for the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
November 2006 cold/flu season! (CHOA) The Common ColdWhat is a cold?A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, throat and upper airways). Because they are contagious, it is common for a child to have as many as six or more colds a year. Colds are generally passed on through hand contact. What are the possible symptoms?Most children with colds will have:
Some children will also have rashes (like red heat bumps), sore throats and red, watery eyes. Occasionally, a child will develop an ear infection a day or two after a cold starts. How long does it last?A cold can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks, but the worst days will be the first three to four. How do I treat my child's cold?Because colds are caused by viruses, there is no medicine that can “cure” your child's cold. In particular, penicillin will not help and could do harm. The cold will go away on its own. It may take as long as 5-7 days. We recommend the following that may help your child to feel better until the cold is gone:
Coughing clears your child's chest and helps prevent pneumonia. Therefore, cough medicine should only be used if recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions for your child's age and weight. If she is less than 6 years of age, you may need to contact your doctor or pharmacist for dosage information. Do not use medications for infants less than 6 months old unless your doctor recommends them. Use cough suppressants only if the cough is dry and interfering with your child's sleep. Make sure that you know and understand all side effects associated with over-the-counter medications. When should I call the doctor?For any respiratory difficulty:
Fever: call immediately for any child under 3 months of age with a temperature of 100.5o F (38o C) or higher Fever: for any child older than 3 months of age with a temperature over 102oF (38.9oC) rectally, or with a fever that lasts longer than two days If your child refuses to play, even for short periods of time. If your child seems to be getting dried out:
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta provides information on colds as a guideline. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician. Always consult your child's doctor or other health care provider whenever your child may require diagnosis or treatment.
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