Health Update: How to Soothe Kids' Colds Without Meds

When to call the doctor for a cold or cough?

Generally speaking, there's no need to call the doctor right away unless you notice your child's running a high fever for his age:

• Your baby is younger than 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees F or higher.
• Your baby is 3 to 6 months and has a rectal temperature of 101 degrees F or higher.
• Your child is older than 6 months and has a rectal temperature of 103 degrees F or higher.

You should also alert the pediatrician if you notice any of the following conditions:

• Your baby's very dehydrated: Hasn't had a wet diaper in six hours, has a dry mouth and has few or no tears when she cries.
• Cold symptoms don't start to improve after five days (could indicate it's something else, like bronchitis, a sinus infection or even pneumonia).
• Your kid seems very fussy, tired and out of it, even with no fever.
• Your child's breathing is rapid or labored.
• Your child refuses to drink (a sign she may have trouble breathing).

Copyright © 2007 Meredith Corporation. Updated October 2008.

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