FAQS for Cough

 

1. When should I be concerned about my child's cough?

Call your pediatrician if:

• Your child has a persistent daily cough that lasts more than four weeks.

• Your child has a cough combined with fast breathing.

• Your child has a high fever, especially if he's coughing

• Your child can't speak normally because of coughing.

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2.What are some home remedies for a child's cough?

Give warm clear fluids 

• Age 1 year and older. Use Honey ½ to 1 teaspoon (2 to 5 mL) as needed

•  Gargling, particularly for a sore throat

• Getting the child to inhale steam

• small amounts of water to drink regularly to calm the irritation

• Avoiding foods that can trigger acid reflux.

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3. Can I give my child over-the-counter cough medicine?

Don't use over-the-counter medicines, except for fever reducers and pain relievers, to treat coughs and colds in children younger than 6 years old. Also, consider avoiding use of these medicines for children younger than 3 years old.

 

4. When to consult a doctor?

Parents should speak with a doctor if the following symptoms accompany a cough:

• foul-smelling green or yellow phlegm

• chills

• dehydration

• fever over 102°F

• fever that lasts for more than 3 days

• weakness & lethargy

• a cough that lasts for a long time or is recurrent