What do I do if my child has a cold?

Most colds don't cause serious illness and will get better over time. Cold symptoms can be treated with some over-the-counter remedies, although some over-the-counter treatments shouldn't be used in young children. Always talk to your doctor before giving your child over-the-counter treatments.

What over-the-counter treatments are helpful in children?

• Buckwheat honey: Eases cough, but shouldn't be used in children younger than one year

• Nasal saline spray: Helps sore throat, runny nose, and stuffy nose

• Pelargonium sidoides (geranium) extract (one brand: Umcka Coldcare): Eases cough and can help your child breathe better through the nose

• Vapor rub: Eases cough, but your child may not like the strong smell

• Zinc sulfate syrup: Decreases how long your child has cold symptoms, but it may cause a bad taste in the mouth and upset your child's stomach

What treatments are not helpful in children?

• Antibiotics

• Echinacea purpurea

• Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines