What is Persistent Cough in Children?
A persistent cough in children is a condition that lasts longer than two weeks and is usually a sign of an underlying health problem. This condition can be caused by a variety of things, including allergies, asthma, upper respiratory infections, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). A persistent cough in children can also be affected by environmental factors, such as exposure to secondhand smoke or air pollution. The cough can be dry or productive and may be worse at night. A thorough medical evaluation, chest X-rays, and allergy tests are usually necessary to make a diagnosis. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause and aims to relieve symptoms.
Cough in Children
Cough in children is always one of the symptoms that worries families the most. There are so many reasons for coughing that phlegm, persistent postnasal drip, foreign objects coming through the airway, reflux are just a few of them.
When the cough starts, its frequency, especially in different age groups, other symptoms accompanying the cough, fever, shortness of breath, night sweats, nasal congestion, we observe all these findings. Recurrent nasal congestion that does not go away for 2-3 weeks, accompanied by watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and occasionally itching, such clinical findings may also increase the possibility of being allergic.
Cough in newborn children is the group that requires the most attention, and babies, especially those under 6 months of age, should always see their doctor when symptoms begin.
If your baby or child is in a good mood when the cough starts, does not have a fever and is breathing comfortably, it can be monitored at home during this period. In babies, it will be sufficient to first check whether their nose is open and, if necessary, to use the nose opening recommendations that your doctor will recommend to you for each age group. It is especially important for breastfeeding mothers to keep their babies' noses open during breastfeeding. The first parameters they will check are the air dryness, temperature and fresh air circulation in the environment they are in.
Croup, which we encounter very frequently, especially in children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, is an upper respiratory tract obstruction due to infection. It is a clinic that worries families, where children often experience coughing and sometimes difficulty breathing, with swelling of the trachea. We encounter it frequently in our clinic during the winter, autumn and spring months. Croup, which is not always accompanied by fever, can usually catch children lying down at home in the middle of the night.
Bronchiolitis is an inflammatory disease that causes blockage in the small airways of the lungs, causing coughing and respiratory distress, especially in the winter months. There may be an underlying flu infection in the family. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, in newborn babies. Especially in newborns, since the diameter of their bronchi is narrow and the cartilage rings surrounding the bronchi are very soft, they block more easily and their complaints can start suddenly. The fever may be normal or slightly elevated. What families should pay attention to is whether the baby is restless, has difficulty sucking, and the rib spaces may collapse inward with each breath. Sleep is especially irregular. Families should definitely consult their physicians when these and similar symptoms occur.
Treatment for Persistent Cough in Children
Treatment of persistent cough in children is primarily based on determining the underlying cause of the cough. If the cough is caused by allergies, antihistamines and allergen avoidance are recommended. If asthma is present, inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators may be effective. Upper respiratory tract infections may require antibiotics or antiviral treatment. In the case of gastroesophageal reflux, dietary changes and acid-reducing medications may be used. Improving the air quality of the home and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke are also helpful. If the cough persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, more extensive medical evaluation may be necessary. Each treatment should be customized to the individual needs of the child.
Causes of Persistent Cough
Common causes of persistent cough in children include allergies, asthma, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease and sometimes long-term infections. Environmental irritants can also contribute to cough.
Preventing Persistent Cough
To prevent cough, you can take precautions such as avoiding allergens, living a healthy lifestyle, and improving air quality at home. Staying away from cigarette smoke is also an important factor in preventing cough.
Frequently Asked Questions About Persistent Cough in Children
Common causes include allergies, asthma, upper respiratory infections, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Environmental factors may also play a role.
Diagnosis is usually made by medical history, physical exam, chest X-ray, allergy tests, and sometimes breath tests.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antihistamines for allergies, inhalers for asthma, antibiotics for infections, or acid reducers for GERD.
A persistent cough is not contagious on its own, but it can be contagious if the cough is caused by a contagious infection.
A persistent cough can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health problem, so it's important to seek medical evaluation if the cough lasts longer than two weeks.
To prevent persistent cough, you can take precautions such as avoiding allergens, living a healthy lifestyle, and improving air quality at home. It is also important to stay away from cigarette smoke.
