What department should I go to for a baby's cold?

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on February 09, 2025
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Infant colds are diseases caused by respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infections, and onset is usually sudden. The registration for a doctor's visit may vary depending on the timing. If it's during normal working hours, then a visit to the pediatric outpatient clinic is usually sufficient. However, if it's during off hours, such as at noon, evening, weekends, or public holidays, then a visit to the pediatric emergency department is generally required. Additionally, depending on the symptoms accompanying the cold, a sub-specialty within pediatrics can be chosen. For instance, if the infant cold includes significant respiratory symptoms, then a visit to the pediatric respiratory medicine outpatient clinic is appropriate. If the cold comes with gastrointestinal symptoms, then the pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic is suitable.

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Written by Han Shun Li
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Can a cold cause vomiting?

The common cold is caused by a viral infection, often causing symptoms in the nasopharyngeal area, such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fever, headaches, and so on. So, can a cold cause vomiting? Yes, a cold can cause vomiting. The symptoms mentioned earlier are typical of a cold. Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms during a cold, often referred to as a "stomach cold," which can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Therefore, sometimes cold sufferers may experience vomiting.

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What should I do if I have a cold with headache and fever?

When experiencing symptoms of a cold such as headache and fever, one should first measure their body temperature and adopt corresponding treatment measures based on the severity of the fever. Fever can cause headaches, fatigue, body aches, and may even lead to complications like nausea and vomiting. If the body temperature does not exceed 38℃ (100.4°F), one can take vitamin supplements, drink ginger tea, and use physical methods to reduce fever. If the body temperature is above 38℃ (100.4°F), one may consider taking antipyretic and pain-relieving medications like ibuprofen or aspirin to alleviate symptoms. Generally, once the body temperature returns to normal, headache symptoms will gradually improve or disappear. (The use of medications should be based on specific conditions and under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yao Li Qin
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How to Treat a Child's Cold in the Early Stages

Children's colds are mostly viral infections and are self-limiting, which means they can resolve on their own. Therefore, no special treatment is needed in the early stages of a child's cold, but it is important for the child to drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest. If an adult at home has a cold, avoid contact with the child and ensure good ventilation; windows should be opened daily for air circulation. Additionally, feed the child light, easily digestible foods. If the child experiences significant nasal congestion or runny nose causing discomfort, child-specific cold granules or physiological saline nasal wash can be used to relieve the symptoms of the cold. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Is the common cold in autumn a wind-heat cold or a wind-cold cold?

In autumn, the temperature difference between day and night increases, and the weather also becomes drier, which leads to the anticipated arrival of colds. If the cold is accompanied by clear nasal discharge and symptoms like sneezing, then it is classified as a cold caused by wind-cold. If during the cold, thick yellow nasal discharge occurs, along with a hoarse voice and sore throat, these symptoms can be identified as a wind-heat cold. After catching a cold, it is important to keep warm to avoid catching cold again, eat more fruits and vegetables, improve physical fitness, and enhance immunity.

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How to take care of a child with a cold

How to take care of a child during a cold? First, it is essential to ensure that the child rests in bed. Provide the child with plentiful water, offering small amounts frequently. If the child does not want to drink water, you can appropriately add some juice or glucose water. Also, monitor the temperature changes, generally measuring the temperature under the armpit. Second, it is crucial to keep windows open for ventilation at home, avoiding too cold or too hot environments, as neither is conducive to the child’s recovery from illness. Third, based on the changes in temperature, adjust the child’s clothing accordingly but avoid dressing the child too warmly or covering too thickly, as this can hinder heat dissipation. This is not only detrimental to the child’s recovery but can also exacerbate the illness and potentially lead to heat rash. Fourth, if the child sweats excessively, be sure to wipe the sweat timely and change their clothes. Fifth, in terms of diet, adopt a strategy of small, frequent meals that are light and easy to digest. The child should avoid eating fish, shrimp, spicy, and other stimulating foods. If the child has poor appetite or indigestion, do not force-feed them. Instead, frequently massage their abdomen, and if necessary, administer oral medication to aid digestion. Sixth, ensure adequate caloric intake and that the child urinates frequently and has regular bowel movements. Seventh, actively apply symptomatic treatment for the child and avoid the misuse of antibiotics. If the temperature persists for more than three days or if the condition worsens, it is imperative to visit the hospital promptly to avoid delaying the child's condition.