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A cough is a reflex that clears fluid from the throat and chest. Cough may occur when nerve endings in those airways get irritated. It is one of the most apparent symptoms of colds and other viruses; however, a cough specialist in Manchester emphasizes that antibiotics may not stop if caused by a virus. Therefore, it’s best to meet a specialist.
Coughs are symptoms of underlying conditions, and treatment depends on the cause. Parents and caregivers need to take note of other symptoms that accompany the cough. Moreover, if your child struggles to breathe, you should immediately speak to a pediatric respiratory physician in Manchester.
Remember, there are preventive measures such as vaccination which prevents their exposure to allergens or irritants. Also, if your child suddenly starts to cough without being unwell first, check whether they are choking. This may require emergency treatment.
The Common Cold
According to recent research performed by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, preschool children who go to daycare may develop roughly eight viral respiratory infections annually. Generally, such infections last up to 10 days.
Meanwhile, if the cough occurs towards the end of an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold, and clears within 1-2 weeks, the Cough specialist in Manchester recommends doing nothing. Also, coughing during colds helps the body clear out mucus from the airways. It eventually protects the lungs.
But, if the cough is dry or non-productive, parents should ensure that their child takes plenty of fluids and warm liquids to help soothe their throat. Some of the standard methods that Pediatric Respiratory Physician in Manchester recommends include
● Using a dehumidifier in the child’s room
● Running hot shower with the door and windows or vents closed and have your kid sit in the room
● Opening the window to provide fresh air to breathe
You may also give your child honey; however, the child should be 12 months or older. Researchers have found that honey may reduce the symptoms of cough more than not availing of treatment.
Note: Children below 12 months don’t have immunity to bacteria that may be present in honey.
Allergies
Allergies may cause dry cough in children. Allergies occur when the immune system confuses something harmless for a foreign intruder and overreacts. Things that cause an allergic reaction are called allergens. Likewise, there are different types of allergen, including pollen, animal dander, and specific foods or medications.
A substance such as histamine is released during an allergic reaction which causes respiratory symptoms. Therefore, a Private Respiratory Pediatrician advises parent to go for
● Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines
● Decongestants
● Nasal Sprays
However, if the allergy becomes severe, the asthma specialist in Manchester may provide allergy shots. Meanwhile, you should seek emergency medical help in case of a child experiences it.
● Hives
● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Abdominal pain
● Diarrhea
● Difficulty in breathing
● Rapid heartbeat
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disorder that includes inflammation, narrowing the airways. This makes your child breathe hard. Symptoms of asthma can be triggered by numerous things, including environmental irritants, respiratory illness, or exercise. Kids may face frequent spells of coughing. This can be dry or productive, which comes under the category of asthma.
Moreover, coughing can be more frequent while playing or at night. Parents may come across a whistling noise when the child breathes in or out. Remember, chronic coughing may be the sign of asthma, i.e., cough-variant asthma. In such scenarios, it’s best to visit an asthma specialist in Manchester.
Other symptoms of asthma include
● Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
● Rapid breathing
● Chest tightness or pain
● Low energy levels
If the child is diagnosed with asthma, Private Respiratory Pediatrician will develop something called an asthma action plan. The action plan covers information on your child’s asthma triggers and how they should take their medication.
The prescribed medication helps to lower the inflammation in the child’s airways. Generally, your child is likely to have two types of medicine- one for long-term asthma control and another for quick relief from the asthma symptoms.
Whooping Cough
Whooping cough or Pertussis is a contagious bacterial infection of the airways. The cough occurs when toxins reduced by bacteria damage the airways and cause them to swell. Generally, kids who experience Pertussis often face long coughing spells. This makes it hard to breathe.
Once the coughing ends, kids may try to breathe in deeply, making a “whooping “noise. Some of the other symptoms include
● Low-grade fever
● Runny nose
● Sneezing
For infants, whooping cough can be a severe issue. Prompt treatment from Pediatric Respiratory Physician in Manchester may include a course of antibiotics. Whooping cough can be prevented through vaccination.
When To Visit A Doctor
Parents should take their child in for a medical evaluation if the cough lasts for longer than 2-3 weeks. Other reasons to seek medical care includes
● Rapid breathing
● Coughing up blood
● Signs of dehydration
● Trouble when breathing
● Whooping sound when the child coughs
● Wheezing sound when the child breathes
● A high fever in an infant.
Seek emergency help from your doctor if the child experiences a severe asthma attack or allergic reactions. If you are unsure what is prompting coughing or concern, you should consider the child to consult a doctor or other healthcare professional.
