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Coughing in children is common and may disappear over time. However, severe or ongoing coughs can indicate a concern requiring medical intervention. At Galaxy Pediatrics in Red Oak and Plano, Texas, the expert pediatric doctors and nurse practitioners find the root cause of your child’s cough and offer treatments to help them feel better. Schedule a same-day sick visit at Galaxy Pediatrics by calling the office or booking a visit online today.
Cough Q & A
What is a cough?
A cough is the body’s way of pushing out air to clear irritants, germs, or mucus out of its airways. While many coughs go away on their own, sometimes the underlying cause requires treatment to avoid complications. If your child is coughing often or forcefully, check in with the Galaxy Pediatrics experts for an evaluation.
What are the symptoms of a cough?
Symptoms of a cough to be aware of include:
- Tickling or scratching in the throat
- Dry cough
- Wet, mucus-filled cough
- Forceful coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- A feeling of choking
- Cough that comes on suddenly
- Chronic (ongoing) coughing lasting more than a few weeks
Determining the cause of your child’s cough helps offer much-needed relief.
What can cause a cough?
The following causes may contribute to coughing:
- Colds
- Flu
- COVID-19
- Acid reflux
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Some medications
- Whooping cough
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Infections
- Postnasal dripping
- Dust
- Smoke
- Strong smells
Left untreated, severe coughing can lead to complications like asthma attacks, headaches, fainting, muscle strains, vomiting, or even rib fractures.
How is the root cause of coughing diagnosed?
Your child’s pediatrician reviews their medical history and symptoms to help pinpoint the root cause of a cough.
How are coughs treated?
Your child’s personalized treatment plan depends on the cause and severity of their cough.
It’s also helpful to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid exposure to smoke, vaping, strong scents, and allergens. If your child has an illness, it’s important for them to get plenty of rest.
Your Galaxy Pediatrics provider follows up to ensure your child’s cough improves. Contact the office anytime with questions and concerns, or if symptoms worsen.
Schedule an evaluation at Galaxy Pediatrics by calling the office or booking online today to have your child’s cough evaluated.