Kapaa Pediatrics, LLC
Upper Respiratory Infection (older children)
Upper Respiratory Infection, also known as the COMMON COLD, is usually caused by a virus. The cold
usually lasts for 3-7 days. It is common for children to have 5-7 colds a year.
Symptom
Fever
Clear, runny nose
Headache
General aches, pains
Fatigue, weakness
Extreme exhaustion
Chest discomfort, cough
Complications
Cold
Rare, usually <101F
Prominent at outset
Rare
Slight
Quite mild
Never
Mild to moderate
Sinusitis, ear infection
Flu
Usually 102-104F
Can be present
Prominent at outset
Usual; often severe
Can last up to 2-3 weeks
Early and prominent
Common; often severe
Bronchitis, pneumonia
Treatment! There is no treatment for the common cold. You may take care of yourself by keeping well
hydrated and getting plenty of rest. If you decide to do symptomatic treatment this table may help.
Symptoms
Over-the-Counter Medication
Fever
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil)
“Stuffy” or Clogged Nose
Blowing your nose easier
Nasal decongestant (Afrin or Neosynephrine)
works within 20 minutes and last 12 hours. Do not
use more than 3 days.
Oral decongestants (pseudoephedrine-Sudafed)
**these products may be associated with
insomnia, nervousness, and irritability**
Guaifenesin
Suppress coughing
Dextromethorphan
Combination Medications
Nyquil, Tylenol Cold & Sinus
Can’t sleep
Benadryl, Nyquil (sedating medications)
When should I call my doctor?
 Fever that lasts longer than 3 days
 Fever that STARTS for the first time after the third day of illness
 Fever over 104.5
 Neck pain, neck stiffness, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath
 Coughing that lasts longer than 4 weeks