You may commonly notice a wet or dry cough in kids. Coughing is a defensive response that clears the airways of irritants, germs, and foreign particles. While wet cough is associated with mucus production, a dry cough does not produce phlegm (mucus). Coughing multiple times a day can be a symptom of viral infections, such as the common cold, which resolve in a few weeks. However, seek medical care if your child has a persistent cough that lasts more than two to three weeks (1). Read on to know the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, home remedies, and prevention strategies for dry cough in children.
Causes Of Dry Cough In Children
There can be various reasons for dry cough. Common causes in children may include the following (1). Diagnosing dry cough can be challenging since it can occur in several viral and bacterial infections in children. It is also possible to have a dry cough due to non-infectious reasons. Seek expert help to identify the exact cause of dry cough in children.
Symptoms Associated With Dry Cough In Children
Cough is a symptom, not a disease. So you may notice other symptoms along with cough due to the underlying cause. The common signs and symptoms seen with cough may include (2):
Stuffy or runny nose Fever Chills Muscle ache Body pain Headache Sore throat Wheezing Loss of appetite Sneezing Fatigue Breathing difficulty
The above-listed symptoms can be seen in various diseases and conditions. Seek medical care to identify the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment. Note: It is essential to teach cough etiquette, like covering the mouth, to your child to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Home Remedies For Dry Cough In Children
The following home remedies could help reduce the throat irritation and discomfort that often accompanies dry cough (3). Non-prescription cough medicines are not recommended for the treatment of cough in younger children. Antibiotics are not useful for treating viral coughs. Always consult a doctor before giving antibiotics or any other medicine to children.
When To See A Doctor
Seek emergency medical care if your child has shortness of breath or bluish lips along with cough (4). Acute cough due to inhaled objects or any type of choking also requires immediate medical attention. You may seek pediatric consultation for coughs with fever, wheezing, or other symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily activities. Contact your kid’s pediatrician before going to the hospital to know the change in outpatient hours and regulations due to the COVID-19 pandemic in your locality.
Diagnosis Of Dry Cough In Children
History of associated symptoms, type of cough, and physical examinations are enough to establish most children’s diagnoses. Pediatricians may order a chest X-ray, blood test, or a throat swab depending on the symptoms and examination findings. Lung function tests for asthma can be done in children who are older than five years (4). Children with chronic cough, and weight loss or other severe symptoms may be referred to a respiratory specialist for detailed evaluation.
Treatment For Dry Cough In Children
Treatment for dry cough may vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Any of the following management plans can be prescribed by the pediatrician (5).
Antibiotic treatment is given only if bacterial infections are the cause.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) is used to control fever associated with cough. Do not give Aspirin to children since it may cause Reye syndrome.
Anti-asthma medication (Ventolin) is prescribed for asthma cases, and asthmatic cough usually resolves while taking this medication.
Post-viral cough (lingering cough or post-infectious cough) may not require specific treatment.
The doctor may suggest avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, and other airway irritants that trigger dry cough in young children.
Referral to a gastroenterologist is made if the cough is caused by GERD or acid reflux.
Psychogenic cough or habit cough may require behavioral therapy.
Most children get a prescription of oral medication and care at home. Some causes of cough, such as pertussis, pneumonia, and bronchitis, may require hospitalization. Note: Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for relief are not recommended for children younger than four years. You may give these medicines to children older than four years after discussing it with a pediatrician (6). The dosage of medications may vary depending on your child’s age and current health status. Therefore, do not use another child’s prescription or use previously prescribed medications.
Tips To Prevent Dry Cough In Children
The following methods may help prevent the illnesses and conditions that lead to dry cough (7).
Wash hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer
Use a face mask
Cover the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing
Do not touch the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact with people with respiratory infections
Avoid irritants such as smoke and dust
Use safe toys and avoid giving nuts to younger children to reduce the risk of inhalation
Consider the annual influenza vaccination (flu shot). Flu immunization can be given any time after a baby reaches six months of age.
If your child has an asthmatic cough, it is recommended to follow the treatment as per prescription to avoid exacerbations. Routine vaccination for children can reduce the risk of pertussis, as well.
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