Upper Respiratory Infection

At Kids 1st Urgent Care, we understand that dealing with a common cold can be stressful and concerning for both parents and children. We treat each child with empathy and understanding, recognizing the discomfort and inconvenience that a cold can bring. We adhere to the clinical guidelines established by leading pediatric institutions to ensure evidence-based care. While we provide supportive care to alleviate symptoms, we also focus on educating families about effective management and prevention strategies. Our goal is to provide high-quality, responsive care, helping to manage your child's cold symptoms effectively while offering guidance and support throughout the recovery process.

What is an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)?

An upper respiratory infection (URI), commonly known as the common cold, is one of the most frequent illnesses diagnosed in children, causing numerous visits to primary care providers and significant absences from school and work each year. Upper Respiratory Infections are caused by viruses that inflame the membranes lining the nose and throat.

Facts About URIs

• Frequency in Children: Most children experience six to eight colds annually, with higher frequencies for those in daycare settings. This number typically decreases after the age of 6.
• Cold Season: URIs are most prevalent during the fall and winter months, from late August or early September through March or April. The increased incidence is partly due to children spending more time indoors and the fact that many cold viruses thrive in low humidity.

Causes of the Common Cold

Upper Respiratory Infections are caused by numerous viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common. Other viruses include coronaviruses, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The infection causes:

• Increased mucus production (runny nose).
• Swelling of the nasal lining (congestion).
• Sneezing and coughing due to irritation and excess mucus.

Transmission of the Cold Virus

• Airborne Transmission: Virus particles from sneezing or coughing can become airborne and be inhaled by others.
• Direct Contact: Touching infected surfaces or objects and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes can transmit the virus. The virus can also spread through objects like toys that have been handled by an infected person.

Symptoms of a Cold

Symptoms typically appear 1-3 days after exposure to the virus and can last from one week to two weeks. Symptoms may vary between infants and older children:

• Infants:
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fussiness
  • Nasal congestion
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Fever
• Older Children:
  • Stuffy, runny nose
  • Scratchy or tickly throat
  • Watery eyes
  • Sneezing
  • Mild hacking cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Fatigue

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis: Most Upper Respiratory Infectionss are diagnosed based on symptoms. For more accurate identification, Kids 1st Urgent Care offers a Respiratory Pathogen Panel to differentiate between cold and other respiratory conditions.
• Treatment:‍
  • No Cure: There is no cure for the common cold, and antibiotics are ineffective as they target bacterial infections, not viruses.‍
  • Symptom Relief: Treatment focuses on symptom relief, including:‍
    • Increased Fluid Intake: To keep the nasal and throat linings moist and prevent dehydration.
    • ‍Avoidance of Smoke: Keeping your child away from secondhand smoke to reduce nasal and throat irritation.‍
    • Congestion Relief: Saline nose drops, a bulb syringe, or a cool mist humidifier can help alleviate congestion.‍
    • Medication Caution: Avoid giving aspirin to children with fever and consult your child’s primary care provider about other medications. The FDA advises against over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for children under four.

Preventing Upper Respiratory Infections

• Avoid Contact: Keep your child away from individuals with colds.
• Hand Hygiene: Encourage frequent hand washing and discourage touching the face.‍
• Clean Toys: Ensure toys and play areas are cleaned regularly, especially in group settings.

Complications Of An Upper Respiratory Infection

Possible complications your child can experience from a cold include:

• Ear infections
• Sinus infections
• Pneumonia
• Throat infections

Antibiotic Overuse

Antibiotic overuse is a significant issue, contributing to antibiotic resistance. It is important to use antibiotics only for bacterial infections, as they are ineffective against viruses like those causing the common cold. By testing your child with a Respiratory Pathogen Panel, unnecessary antibiotics can be avoided.

Child-Friendly Environment

Understanding that medical treatments can be stressful for children, all of our providers have been trained by our Child Life Specialists on how to approach your child in a friendly and

compassionate manner. We strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible, with a child- centered environment and a caring staff that helps ease any anxiety.

Kids 1st Urgent Care sources its medical research from leading authorities in pediatric medicine, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Texas Children’s Hospital.