The info you need to handle coughs in kids
To parents, coughs in kids can sound scary and serious. Usually, it’s nothing to worry about. Instead, acute coughs are a common symptom of a cold or other virus or allergies. A chronic cough can last for more than three weeks and may be a sign of asthma or allergies. We suggest that you call our Plano pediatricians when the cough persists.
What triggers coughing in kids?
Any type of viral infection in the upper respiratory system, including colds, flu and bronchitis, can cause acute coughs. Ear infections are another common cause.
If a child has allergies, asthma, post-nasal drip or chronic sinus infections, they may develop a chronic cough. When a child’s cough is persistent, our pediatricians need to see them to diagnose the cause and develop a treatment plan. Antibiotics will not help your child quit coughing if he or she has a virus. If a bacterial infection causes the cough, our pediatricians may prescribe antibiotics.
How to treat babies and toddlers
One popular remedy for treating coughs in kids is honey, but it is NOT safe to treat babies who are less than 1 year old with honey because it can give them botulism poisoning. You shouldn’t give infants or children under the age of 4 any over-the-counter cough medications.
The following suggestions may help your child feel better.
- Exposure to steam from a cool-mist humidifier, or in a bathroom with the door closed and a warm shower running
- Suctioning out their nostrils
- Breastfeeding or providing smaller feeds more often
- Saline nose spray or drops
- Children 1 year or older can have a half to a whole teaspoon of honey
- Toddlers can suck on ice pops
Remedies for school kids with acute and chronic cough
Steam, honey and ice pops also help soothe coughs in kids who are school age. If your child is between 4 and 5, you can call our pediatricians to see if there are any over-the-counter medications that he or she can take. Children over the age of 5 can take OTC cough medications or suck on cough drops.
When should you call our Plano pediatricians?
Sometimes, coughs in kids can be a serious symptom. If you notice any of the following signs, you should call our pediatricians.
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Fever 100° F for more than three days
- A barking sound to the cough
- Noisy, raspy breathing when inhaling
- Chronic cough that last three or more weeks
- Vomiting from severe coughing
If your child coughs up blood, seek immediate medical care.
Coughs in kids are usually nothing to worry about. It’s usually fine to treat your coughing child at home. Our Plano pediatricians are happy to give you advice about appropriate treatments and medications. Contact us for an appointment.
