Common cold in babies

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors Complications

Preparing for your appointment Treatments and drugs Lifestyle and home remedies Prevention

Definition

A common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract — your baby's nose and throat. Nasal congestion and a runny nose are the primary signs of common cold in babies. Babies are especially susceptible to the common cold, in part because they're often around other older children who don't always wash their hands. In fact, within the first two years of life, most babies have eight to 10 colds.

Treatment for the common cold in babies involves taking steps to ease their symptoms, such as providing plenty of fluids and keeping the air moist. Very young infants must see a doctor at the first sign of the common cold, because they're at greater risk of complications such as croup or pneumonia.

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Symptoms