Colds, flu and sore throats in children

Colds, coughs and sore throats are common in children and are usually caused by bacteria or viruses. They tend to occur more frequently in the winter months.

Sore throats

A sore throat is often described as pain or discomfort in the throat and may be a symptom of bacterial or viral infection.

Signs your child is suffering from a sore throat may include:

• Their throat is red
• It’s painful to swallow
• They refuse to eat or drink
• They’re tired or less active than normal.

To help your child feel better

• Providing pain relief can help ease their symptoms and make them feel more comfortable. Paracetamol such as Dymadon – can be used to help relieve the pain caused by a sore throat and is suitable for children aged 1 month or older.
• Some children with a sore throat may not want to eat or drink because of the pain it can cause – so it is important to ensure they stay well hydrated by giving them plenty of water to drink. Your child might also find that warm or iced drinks, or ice-blocks may help soothe their sore throat.
• If your child is on solids, avoid foods that may irritate or cause pain when swallowing. Try giving your child soft foods such as soup, jelly, yoghurt, soft or cooked fruit or ice-cream.
• Make sure they get enough sleep – the body recovers best when it’s well rested.
• Keep your child away from cigarette smoke as this can make their symptoms worse.
• Children that are unwell may need extra attention – so a cuddle from mum, dad, gran or grandpa never goes astray

Usually a sore throat will resolve within a week without needing medication.

If your child is very unwell, is not drinking any fluids, or has difficulty swallowing or breathing, take your child to your doctor.

Colds and Flu

People often get a cold and the flu confused, as they both result from viruses and some of the symptoms can be similar. BUT, there are important differences.

The common cold

Catching a cold is very common and children can get 5-10 colds a year especially while their immune systems are still developing.

The common cold usually affects the nose, throat and upper airways and symptoms can include:

• Coughing
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Having a blocked or runny nose

Generally, your child will recover from their cold within 7-10 days.

The flu

Although flu infections commonly occur during the winter, children can catch them at any time during the year. Having the flu can affect the nose, throat and lungs, but it can involve other parts of the body as well.

Children with the flu may have some or all of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Muscle aches and pains
• Headache
• Tiredness and low energy
• Cough
• Sore throat and runny nose
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea

If you think your child may have the flu, you should see your doctor so they can check if your child has the flu.

See your doctor if your child has cold or flu symptoms and they also have a chronic medical condition or if they show warning signs of severe illness, including poor feeding, dehydration and difficulty breathing.

How to help your child feel better

• Using paracetamol – like Dymadon – for pain and fever relief may help your child feel better. Always read the label to ensure you give your child the right dose.
• Make sure they get enough rest – the body recovers best when it’s well rested.
• Ensure your child is well hydrated – give them plenty of water to drink.
• Keep your child away from cigarette smoke.
• Children that are unwell may need extra attention – so a cuddle from mum, dad, gran or grandpa never goes astray.

Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of colds and flu. Make sure you wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and try not to share any utensils.

Ask for Dymadon paracetamol at your pharmacy.

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