Whether it is common cold and dry nose or more severe sinusitis and rhinitis – kids are prone to all kinds of viral infections and allergies.

According to kidshealth.org,  ‘Most colds are caused by rhinoviruses that are in invisible droplets in the air we breathe or on things we touch.’

Signs of common cold are throat irritation, sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, cough, mild fever, muscle aches, fatigue, appetite loss and headache. Medicines like decongestants or antihistamines can dry the nose. In severe cases, dryness can cause bleeding in the nasal passage. Nasal congestion, also called stuffy nose or blocked nose, can occur due to a viral infection. It can cause blood vessels in the nose to become swollen. Sinusitis can also cause stuffy nose. Other causes of nasal congestion are allergies, vasomotor rhinitis, polyps or structural abnormalities in the nasal passage. Secondhand smoke can cause allergies or stuffy nose in kids. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever can occur due to exposure to allergens such as pollens. A clean house, absence of smoke and proper hydration can help keep nasal allergies at bay.

Kids under two years of age can also suffer from infection in their lower respiratory track. This infection is called bronchiolitis. Kids also often experience nasal injuries. Bumps, falls and accidents during play often result in a broken nose or nasal fractures. Young kids are also prone to emergency room visits for stuffing their nose with small items like pebbles.

For more on this topic, you can read articles in this ClipBook.