This is a relatively broad topic.  Generally, most colds and other viral infections start the same.  It may remain a mild infection which subsides within a week or two, or it may worsen to a more serious infection.  Mostly, coughs and colds are caused by viral infections.

Symptoms of a routine cold

• Duration between a couple of days and 3 weeks
• Green or yellow mucous, may be thick
• Runny or stuffy nose, with or without sneezing
• Up to 5 days of fever
• Chest congestion and a cough, of which may trigger gagging and vomiting
• Cough which is worse at night
• Mild ear pain
• Headache and sinus pressure
• Sore and scratchy throat
• Fussiness, poor sleeping routine and loss of appetite

When to see your paediatrician

• Should you as a parent at any time be concerned, rather make an appointment. It is better to be safe than sorry.
• If your child’s cough sounds like a “barking” cough.
• Raspy voice while talking, breathing, or crying.
• Shortness of breath, fast breathing, chest pain, severe coughing, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite.
• Swelling of pain in your child’s face (sinusitis).