What should be done for a child with persistent dry cough?
Dec 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, persistent dry cough in children may be related to respiratory tract irritation, insufficient water intake, common cold, allergic cough, bronchitis, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's guidance for general treatment, medication, and other therapeutic approaches. It is also advised to maintain a light diet and reduce the intake of spicy, greasy, and other irritating foods to promote recovery.
Generally, persistent dry cough in children may be related to respiratory tract irritation, insufficient water intake, common cold, allergic cough, bronchitis, and other causes. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow a doctor's guidance for treatments such as general care or medication. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Respiratory Tract Irritation
Children's respiratory tracts are relatively sensitive and easily irritated by external factors such as cold air, smoke, and dust, which can trigger a dry cough. It is recommended to keep indoor air fresh and avoid exposing children to irritants like smoke and dust.
2. Insufficient Water Intake
Inadequate water intake can cause dryness of the respiratory mucosa, increasing the risk of dry cough. Parents are advised to encourage children to drink more water to keep the respiratory mucosa moist.
3. Common Cold
A common cold is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. Pathogens infect and cause congestion and swelling of the respiratory mucosa, stimulating the cough reflex center and leading to dry cough. It is typically accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and fever. Treatments may include medications like Paracetamol Compound Tablets, Isatidis Root Granules, and Oseltamivir Phosphate Capsules, used according to medical advice.
4. Allergic Cough
Allergic cough is usually triggered by exposure to allergens. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal fur irritate the respiratory mucosa, causing allergic reactions that lead to dry cough. Symptoms often include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Treatments may include medications like Loratadine Tablets, Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets, and Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride Tablets, used according to medical advice.
5. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is usually caused by infections from pathogens such as viruses or bacteria. Congestion and swelling of the bronchial mucosa, along with increased secretions, stimulate the cough reflex center, resulting in dry cough. Symptoms may also include fever, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Treatments may include medications such as Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets, Cefixime Capsules, and Compound Methoxyphenamine Capsules, used under a doctor's recommendation.
It is recommended to maintain a light diet, increase water intake appropriately, and reduce the consumption of irritating foods such as spicy and greasy foods to promote recovery.
