Patient's question:
My son is almost 5 months old. A few days ago, he had a bit of a stuffy nose and a runny nose. Today, he has a slightly low fever of 37.9C. What should I do?Doctor's answer:
Hello: Based on your description, the child's condition should be classified as symptoms of a cold. It is best to actively treat it. When children get colds, parents must follow medical advice for home care. One important aspect of home care for children with colds is to ensure the child gets adequate rest. The younger the child, the more rest they need. They can only resume normal activities after their symptoms disappear. The second is to take medication on time. For most colds, they are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are ineffective. Especially in the early stages of viral infection, antibiotics not only do not help but can also lead to dysbiosis of the body's flora if overused, favoring bacterial growth and worsening the condition. Taking "Pain Reliever" can effectively relieve symptoms such as fever, nasal congestion, and cough caused by colds, preventing complications and promoting early recovery. The third is to provide appropriate food during the fever phase of a child's cold, such as fluids, noodles, or porridge, based on their appetite and digestive capacity. Breastfeeding infants should temporarily reduce feeding frequency to avoid digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea. The fourth is to maintain a quiet and fresh environment in the living space, with smoking prohibited. The temperature should be stable, neither too high nor too low or humid. Extra attention should be given if there are symptoms of laryngitis, as this will help the child recover quickly.