Question
Recently, a parent inquired about how to choose antibiotics for their one-year-old son who has a cold, as well as what precautions should be taken when using antibiotics.
Answer
When a child has a cold, parents should not worry excessively. If the symptoms are mild, such as a runny nose or slight cough, it is advisable to supplement nutrition and observe any changes in the condition. If there is a fever, but the body temperature is below 38 degrees, it is recommended to use physical cooling methods, such as wiping with warm water, rubbing alcohol on the palms of hands and soles of feet, and placing ice packs on the forehead to help reduce fever. When choosing antibiotics, it is important to follow the doctor’s advice and pay attention to the dosage to avoid harming the child’s stomach. After taking antibiotics, the child may experience side effects such as diarrhea, and parents should closely monitor them. If the mother is infected with a cold, she should also receive timely treatment, especially during breastfeeding periods as her health directly affects the baby. If the mother’s condition is severe and requires intravenous treatment, she should temporarily stop breastfeeding for 2-3 days and switch to formula milk during that period.