What medication can a three-year-old child take for a cold and runny nose?

Generally speaking, a three-year-old child experiencing a runny nose due to a cold might be caused by cold air irritation, dust or foreign body irritation, common cold, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow a doctor's guidance in using medications such as Pediatric Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine, and Artificial Cow-Bezoar Granules (Xiao’er Anfenhuangnaming Granules), Cetirizine drops, or Cefaclor Granules for treatment. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Cold Air Irritation

A three-year-old child's nasal mucosa is relatively delicate. Exposure to cold air may cause nasal mucosa congestion and edema, leading to a runny nose. Medication is usually unnecessary. Parents should ensure the child stays warm, avoid direct exposure to cold air, and wear a mask outdoors to reduce nasal irritation caused by cold air.

2. Dust or Foreign Body Irritation

If a child inhales dust or foreign bodies into the nasal cavity, the nasal mucosa can be irritated, producing secretions that lead to a runny nose. Typically, no medication is required. Parents should maintain a clean living environment for the child, regularly clean the room to reduce dust accumulation, and teach the child not to insert foreign objects into the nasal cavity.

3. Common Cold

A common cold is generally caused by a viral infection. The virus invades the nasal mucosa, causing mucosal congestion and edema, producing excessive secretions, and leading to a runny nose. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, cough, and sneezing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Pediatric Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine, and Artificial Cow-Bezoar Granules, Pediatric Cold Granules, or Xiao’er Shuqiao Qingre Granules can be used for treatment. Adequate rest and staying warm are also important.

4. Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is usually triggered by exposure to allergens, causing an allergic reaction of the nasal mucosa and resulting in a large amount of clear nasal discharge. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes may also occur. It is recommended to use anti-allergy medications such as Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets, Cetirizine drops, or Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray under a doctor's guidance and avoid contact with allergens.

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis is often caused by bacterial infection. Bacteria invade the sinus cavity, causing sinus mucosal congestion and edema, and producing purulent nasal discharge. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, fever, and worsening nasal congestion. Follow medical advice in using medications such as Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Granules, Cefaclor Granules, or Biyuan Tongqiao Granules for treatment.

In daily life, it is recommended to provide the child with a balanced diet ensuring adequate nutrition and allow for appropriate outdoor activities to enhance immunity.