Ask the Doctors: Runny Nose

Runny-NoseQ: My child has a very runny nose. Should I be concerned?

A: Colds are common in young children and are easily passed from child to child. Colds usually run their course in five to 10 days, but it is important to keep a watchful eye on your child and be aware of symptoms that might indicate an illness beyond a cold. Coldlike symptoms can be early indicators of a number of illnesses, including sinus infections, ear infections, tonsils/adenoids infection or even pneumonia. I recommend that if, after a few days, the mucus is thick or your child develops a high, consistent fever; makes coughs that are deep or accompanied by rattling in the chest; has difficulty breathing; appears lethargic or dehydrated, you should have them seen and evaluated.

Dr. Matthew Provenzano is a member of the medical staff at Porter Regional Hospital and a member of Porter Physician Group. He is board certified in Otolaryngology and fellowship trained in Pediatric Otolaryngology. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Provenzano at Associated ENT Specialists, call 219-531-0355.

Learn more about the Porter Physician Group here!