Coughing in children is one of the symptoms that indicate the clearing of the airways and respiratory passages from mucus containing germs.
The causes of coughing in children vary depending on the type of cough; it may be due to a common cold, allergies, or a respiratory infection. In this article, we will learn about the types of coughs, their causes, and methods of treatment.
What are the types of coughs in children
There are many types of coughs that children experience, and they differ according to the nature and cause of the cough, including:
- Dry cough.
- Nighttime cough.
- Chronic cough.
- Cough with phlegm.
How do I identify the type of cough in children
Coughs in children can be distinguished by the sound accompanying the cough and the accompanying symptoms. If it is dry, this indicates a sore throat.
If the cough is wet, this indicates the presence of mucus in the chest. If the cough increases at night, this is a sign that the child has asthma or allergies.
First: Dry cough in children
A dry cough is characterized by the child coughing without phlegm or secretions, and its sound is sharp, especially at night.
Causes of dry cough
- Sore throat.
- Common cold.
- Allergies.
- Exposure to air conditioning.
Symptoms of dry cough
- Sore throat.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Dry throat.
- Cough without phlegm.
Second: Cough with phlegm in children
A cough with phlegm is characterized by the expulsion of mucus from the chest and is called a wet cough.
Causes of cough with phlegm
- Common cold.
- Asthma.
- Sinusitis.
- Bronchitis.
- Respiratory tract infection.
Symptoms of cough with phlegm
- Difficulty breathing.
- Loss of appetite.
- High temperature.
- Coughing up phlegm.
Third: Chronic Cough in Children
A chronic cough is one that lasts for more than 3 weeks in children and indicates a problem with the respiratory system.
Causes of Chronic Cough
- Asthma.
- Gastroesophageal reflux.
- Enlarged tonsils.
- Chronic allergies.
- Nasal polyps.
- Respiratory tract infection.
Symptoms of Chronic Cough
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Shortness of breath.
- Persistent cough for more than 3 weeks.
- Increased coughing during play and at night.
Fourth: Nighttime Cough in Children
Nighttime cough in children is one that significantly increases at night, causing insomnia and difficulty sleeping for the child.
Causes of Nighttime Cough
- Common cold.
- Rhinitis.
- Chest allergies.
- Exposure to strong odors.
- Accumulation of mucus in the throat.
Symptoms of Nighttime Cough
- Dry throat.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Shortness of breath.
- Itchy throat.
- Increased coughing at night and decreased coughing during the day.
Home Remedies for Cough in Children
Cough in children can be treated and the throat and cough soothed with natural and effective methods at home, such as:
- Raising the child's head while sleeping.
- Focusing on boosting the child's immunity.
- A teaspoon of natural honey.
- Drinking anise and honey with warm water.
- Drinking plenty of fluids and warm herbal teas.
- Exposing the child to inhaling warm water vapor for a few minutes.
Medications for Treating Cough in Children
It is preferable to consult a doctor or pharmacist for the appropriate medication, as each type of cough requires a specific medication, as follows:
Medications to Suppress Dry Cough
- Oplex syrup.
- Notussil syrup.
- Bronchicum syrup.
- Eversban Syrup.
Medicines to soothe coughs accompanied by phlegm
- Actifed Syrup.
- Mucosol Syrup.
- Ambroxol Syrup.
Medicines used for chronic coughs
- Telfast Syrup.
- Fexon Syrup.
- Ultrasolv Syrup.
Medicines to treat nighttime coughs
- Mucosolvan Syrup.
- Ambroxol Syrup.
- Mucofar Syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions about Types of Coughs in Children
When is a cough dangerous in children
A cough is dangerous if it is accompanied by a wheezing sound, difficulty breathing, frequent vomiting, and bloody phlegm. You should go to the doctor immediately.
When should a child be taken to the doctor because of a cough
A child should be taken to the doctor if the cough lasts for more than two weeks, or if the child experiences shortness of breath or a high fever and does not improve with medication.
What herbs help soothe coughs in children
There are some natural herbal remedies such as anise, mint, chamomile, and guava leaves, in addition to honey with lemon.
Article Summary
Coughing in children is a common symptom that indicates a problem in the respiratory system, and its type varies depending on its causes and symptoms.
These include dry coughs, chronic coughs, and coughs accompanied by phlegm, and they can be treated at home with warm fluids or with medications specifically designed for each type.