In other words, they always get better, with or without medication, within a few weeks. However, the cold viruses can affect the lining of the upper respiratory system in a way that leads to other infections, such as sinusitis, ear infections or bronchitis. In addition, people who already have asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema are likely to suffer worsening of their symptoms for many weeks after they recover from a cold. Colds inChildren Nearly all young children develop colds frequently-an average of six to eight times a year. After age six, colds become less frequent.
Teenagers develop colds about as often as adults do-two to four times a year.
Any infant with a fever and cold symptoms should be seen by a physician. In both infants and children, the main goals of treatment are to make the child as comfortable as possible and to relieve nasal congestion. A vaporizer or humidifier should be used to prevent the mucus in the nose from becoming dry and hard. In young infants, saline nasal drops and gentle suction with a bulb syringe can help keep the nasal passages clear. Cold Facts and Fallacies Large doses of Vitamin C have not been proven to effectively prevent or cure colds.