Health and family
Dry coughing in children is common and is usually due to viral infections, allergies or asthma. Know what the alert symptoms are and how you can relieve it.
To relieve cough at home, hydration, nasal toilets and avoid dry environments are recommended. (Free Press Photo: Shuttersock)
Dry coughing in children is one of the most frequent reasons for pediatric consultation, especially in cold times or at the beginning of the school year. Although in most cases it is due to passing viral infections, it may also be related to allergies, asthma or other conditions that require medical care.
The pneumologist Sher Medrano explains that “cough is a mechanism for the protection of lungs and respiratory pathway, which seeks to defend against something that can damage it.” But when is it normal and when should we worry? Here we explain it.
More common causes of dry cough in children
According to Medrano, the most frequent causes in Guatemala are:
- Viral respiratory infections (colds, flu), which usually improve progressively.
- Allergies (allergic rhinitis, exposure to dust or pollen).
- Asthma, which can manifest with dry cough and whistles in the chest.
In addition, the Mayo Clinic points out that dry cough can also be due to environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke or dry air.
When to go to the pediatrician? Alarm signs
Although dry cough is usually harmless, there are signs that require immediate medical attention. Medrano warns that the pediatrician should be consulted if:
- The cough lasts more than two weeks, even if the child seems to be fine.
- There is difficulty breathing (the ribs sink or there is fatigue when speaking).
- Palencia or purple coloration is observed around the lips or fingers.
- Chest whistles are heard.
It is important to be attentive, since a persistent cough can indicate asthma, reflux or even whore, so a professional evaluation is key.
Insurance home remedies to relieve dry cough
When the problem is not serious, there are actions that we can put into practice to improve the discomfort of the little ones. Medrano recommends comfort measures to relieve cough at home:
- Keep the child hydrated (water, oral serum).
- Clean the airways with nostrils using saline solution.
- Avoid dry environments.
To this, the Children’s Health site also highlights the following measures that can be applied:
- Place a cold steam humidifier in the child’s room, near where he sleeps.
- Allow the child to breathe water vapors from a bath or hot shower.
- A teaspoon of honey can help fight cough and relieve the child’s throat. This is only recommended in children over one year.
- Making gargoyas with salt water can relieve throat pain and reduce mucus and congestion.
How to prevent dry cough in children?
Prevention is key, especially in cold or high virus circulation seasons. Medrano recommends:
- Complete vaccination (including influenza and COVID-19 if it applies).
- Avoid contact with sick people; If there is respiratory infection, wear a mask.
- Maintain clean, dust and smoke -free environments.
Dry coughing in children is usually passing, but if it persists or is accompanied by respiratory distress, it is important to seek medical attention.
“The most important thing is to prevent respiratory infections, which are the order of the day,” concludes Medrano.