Cough is one of the most common symptoms in childhood and often occurs as a sign of health. This reflex is the body’s self-defense mechanism; It protects the upper and lower airways and helps clear foreign substances and harmful microorganisms.
Since children’s immune systems are not yet fully developed, cough often occurs as a result of conditions such as colds, flu and allergic reactions. Correct evaluation is extremely important for early detection of underlying health problems.
What causes cough in children?
Cough in children can be triggered by many different factors, and understanding these factors can help identify underlying health problems. Here are the most common causes of cough in children:
- Respiratory infections: Infections such as cold, flu, bronchitis or pneumonia cause irritation in the respiratory tract and trigger the cough reflex. This is the body’s infection-fighting mechanism.
- Allergies: Children may be sensitive to allergenic substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. While allergic reactions cause a persistent cough, they are often accompanied by other symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose or itching.
- Asthma: Children with asthma frequently experience cough, wheezing and shortness of breath as a result of inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
- Environmental irritants: Cigarette smoke, air pollution, strong odors, or exposure to chemicals can trigger coughing in children with sensitive airways.
- Gastroesophageal reflux: Backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause irritation and thus cough, especially after meals or during sleep.
Cough treatment in children
Treatment of cough in children varies depending on the underlying cause. Rest, drinking plenty of fluids and steam applications can help relieve symptoms. While fever and painkillers can be used with the doctor’s recommendation, antihistamines for allergic conditions and appropriate medications for asthma symptoms can be included in the treatment plan. In cases of long-lasting or severe cough, a doctor should be consulted. In addition, relaxing ingredients such as honey and ginger can be preferred among natural methods, but these should first be used in consultation with an expert.
What is good for cough in children?
Treatment of cough in children varies depending on the cause and type of cough. Effective methods that can be used to relieve cough symptoms in children are as follows:
- Fluid consumption: Feeding children plenty of warm liquids such as water, herbal tea or broth keeps the respiratory tract moist and relieves cough.
- Use of a humidifier: Keeping a cool humidifier in the child’s room increases the humidity of the air, reducing cough caused by dryness or congestion.
- Saline nose drops: For children suffering from a cold or nasal congestion, saline nose drops relieve postnasal drip by opening the nasal passages and thus can reduce coughing problems.
- Honey: Giving a teaspoon of honey to children over 1 year old, especially at bedtime, can be a natural and effective way to relieve cough. Honey has soothing properties that help soothe cough symptoms.
- Allergy management: If the cough is caused by allergic reactions, minimizing contact with allergens is of great importance. This may include keeping the child’s living area clean, using anti-dust mite covers, or providing a pet-free area.
- Asthma management: Children with asthma need a comprehensive treatment plan that includes maintenance inhalers and relievers and avoidance of triggers. Contacting a pediatrician or pediatric asthma specialist is a critical step for proper asthma management.