Complications
The connection of the middle ear by a passage into the nasopharynx can lead to an inflammation of the middle ear through migration of the pathogens. Since it can be very painful, children express themselves with increased crying or frequently grab the affected ear with their hands. Germs also enter the lungs via the throat and windpipe, and infections with coughing and fever can occur, which can extend to pneumonia.
RSV in particular can cause infections of the small bronchi or pneumonia, although this is more likely to occur in children with a pre-existing respiratory or immune system problem. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses or frontal sinuses (sinusitis) can also occur. The various paranasal sinuses enter the nose at different points.
They serve to reduce the weight of the skull and are also lined with a mucous membrane. If these cavities become inflamed, there is often a pressure pain between the eyes or over the affected areas. Sore throats are a conceivable complication, since this area is crossed by microorganisms on their natural way to the lungs.
As long as it is a simple cold, it can be treated and cured at home.In the first months of life it can be very difficult to distinguish a simple cold from other infections. Therefore, a visit to the pediatrician should be made in case of a cold, cough or fever. However, there are some signals from the baby that should not make you hesitate for long to go to a doctor.
These include a fever above 39°C or if it lasts longer than a day, at least in very young children. Dehydration is also dangerous, it can occur when the baby is very unwilling to drink or sweats a lot. It is usually noticed by a smaller amount of urine than usual or by dry mucous membranes.
Accelerated breathing with nostrils or even bluish lips is also a warning signal that should be checked as soon as possible. A visit to a pediatrician is also advisable in the case of a severe and productive cough. Perhaps in these cases certain medication or measures are important to prevent further deterioration. If a cold turns out to be influenza or complications arise, a hospital stay may be necessary. Sometimes it is easier to get the situation under control again in a targeted stay.
