As miserable as a phlegmy cough or stuffy nose can make your child feel, it's helpful to know that nasal or chest congestion can often seem worse than it actually is. In fact, "Congestion is a normal, healthy response to a virus or an irritant. It’s generally the body's way of trapping it in the nose and throat so it doesn't get to your lungs," says Michael Brady, MD, a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics committee on infectious diseases and chair of the department of pediatrics at Nationwide Children's Hospital, in Columbus, Ohio.
Still, congestion can sometimes signal something more serious. How can you tell the difference? Here's what you need to know about this common cold symptom and the best ways to handle it so both you and your child can breathe easier.