My 4yr old has bad cough and runny nose?

Cough, rhinorrhea: Saline nasal spray can help flush mucus from nasal passages & prevent coughing. Otc cough prep (pediatric Robitussin or Vicks formula 44) can also help with cough. If running fever or complaining of ear pain, see pediatrician as bacterial infection may be present.

Cold or flu likely: This time of year, we are seeing lots of influenza and RSV (a cold in most children, but can cause long lasting wheezing and pneumonia in others). If he is eating well, sleeps and looks well, and is not in distress, you can watch and treat symptomatically (extra fluids, sleep, humidifier). If not, see your dr promptly--and get a flu shot when he's better!