Colds are not caused by cold air, drafts, or swimming. Some newborns sound stuffy on and off, but there is no nasal discharge. They are having dried mucous developing in the nasal passage which can be cleared with salt water drops and bulb syringing. Infants under about 4 months must breathe through their nose and sucking can become difficult with a cold. They may be at risk of becoming dehydrated if they are not feeding well.
Most children get about six to ten colds per year.
The frequency is higher if the child is in daycare, has siblings in school or is around a lot of other children. A foreign body placed in the nose may cause a one-sided foul smelling thick runny nose. Discuss these possibilities with your doctor if the runny nose is more than 10 to 14 days or if you suspect a foreign body in the nostril. Most colds last 7 to 10 days. Fevers usually last less than 3 or 4 days.