“Your child has had three colds since school reopened, and you’re wondering if something is wrong. Most likely, nothing is. Let me explain.”

Hello, I’m N.V.Tejaswini, A Senior Consultant pediatrician at Ankura Gachibowli.

Winter is here, and my clinic is full of coughs and runny noses. So today, let’s talk about what you can do at home, and when you should come and see me.

First, some reassurance. Young children can catch six to eight colds a year. That is normal. Each cold is the immune system learning. It does not mean your child is weak.

Now, four things that really help.

One: fluids and rest. Warm water, soups, and breast milk for babies. A child who is drinking well is usually coping well.

Two: clear the nose. Saline nasal drops are safe and simple, and they help babies feed and sleep better.

Three: for children above one year, a spoon of honey at bedtime can soothe a night cough. Never give honey to a baby under one year.

Four: wash hands often, and keep your child’s vaccinations up to date. Ask us about the yearly flu vaccine. It can be given from six months of age.

Now the myth I hear every day: “Doctor, please give a strong antibiotic so it goes away fast.” Most colds are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. They will not shorten the cold, and unnecessary use makes them less effective when your child truly needs them. The same goes for cough syrups. Please don’t give them to young children without asking your doctor.

A simple cold usually improves in seven to ten days.

But please see your doctor without delay if:

• your child is breathing fast, or the chest is pulling in with each breath
• A baby under three months has any fever
• fever lasts more than three days
• your child is refusing feeds or passing very little urine
• your child is unusually sleepy, or lips look bluish

Trust your instinct. If your child looks unwell to you, come in. No parent has ever wasted my time by being careful.