Why does a child have a severe cough when they have a cold, and what should be done?

Dec 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

In general, severe cold and cough symptoms in children may be caused by dry air, inhalation of irritant gases, common cold, acute bronchitis, or pneumonia. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the doctor's guidance for general treatment and medication. Normally, one should ensure good indoor air circulation and keep the air fresh; avoid contact with allergens such as pollen and dust.

Generally, severe cold and cough in children may be caused by dry air, inhalation of irritant gases, common cold, acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the doctor's guidance for general treatment, medication, and other treatment methods. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Dry Air

When the air is dry, the respiratory mucosa loses moisture and becomes dry. Dry mucosa is easily irritated, triggering a cough reflex. It is important to maintain an appropriate indoor air humidity, and a humidifier can be used. Drinking plenty of water daily to replenish fluids helps maintain moisture in the respiratory mucosa.

2. Inhalation of Irritant Gases

When children inhale irritant gases such as smoke, dust, pollen, etc., the respiratory mucosa becomes irritated, triggering a cough reflex. These gases stimulate nerve endings on the respiratory mucosa, causing nerve impulses that lead to coughing. It is recommended to avoid taking children to places with smoke, dust, or pollen. During hazy weather, outdoor activities should be minimized, and if necessary, wear a mask when going out.

3. Common Cold

The common cold is caused by viral infections, such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, etc. Viruses multiply extensively in the respiratory tract, irritating the mucosa and triggering an inflammatory response, which may cause coughing. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing. Under the guidance of a doctor, medications such as ribavirin granules, acyclovir tablets, amantadine hydrochloride tablets, etc., can be used for treatment.

4. Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis occurs after bacterial or viral infections cause inflammation of the tracheal and bronchial mucosa. The inflammation irritates the tracheal and bronchial mucosa, causing them to secrete large amounts of mucus, which leads to coughing. Symptoms also include phlegm production and fever. Follow medical advice to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime granules, dextromethorphan hydrobromide syrup, etc., for treatment.

5. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and mycoplasma infecting lung tissue. Pathogens multiply extensively in lung tissue, triggering an inflammatory response that may irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing. Symptoms also include chest pain and difficulty breathing. Patients can use medications such as azithromycin for oral suspension, ambroxol oral solution, ceftriaxone sodium for injection, etc., under the guidance of a doctor.

In daily life, ensure good indoor air circulation and fresh air; avoid contact with allergens such as pollen and dust; engage in regular exercise to strengthen physical health and improve immunity.

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Can children with a cold use a fan?

The common cold is usually a respiratory disease caused by viral or bacterial infections, with symptoms including fever, cough, nasal congestion, and runny nose. During a cold, a child's body is relatively weak, and their resistance is lowered. If exposed directly to a fan at this time, it may cause a rapid drop in surface body temperature, leading to pore contraction, which is not conducive to heat dissipation and sweat excretion.

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What medication can a three-year-old child take for a cold and runny nose?

Under normal circumstances, a three-year-old child's common cold with a runny nose may be caused by cold air irritation, dust or foreign body irritation, the common cold, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and use medications such as Pediatric Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine, and Amantadine Granules, Cetirizine Hydrochloride Drops, or Cefaclor Granules under the guidance of a physician. In daily life, it is advised to provide the child with a well-balanced diet.

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Can children with a cold use air conditioning?

In general, whether a child with a common cold can be exposed to air conditioning depends on the specific symptoms. If the child has a fever, it is usually acceptable to use air conditioning; however, if there is no fever, air conditioning is not recommended. If the child experiences any discomfort, timely medical attention is advised. Regular physical exercise should be emphasized in daily life, and the child should be encouraged to engage in appropriate outdoor activities.

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What should be done for children with colds and runny noses?

In general, a child's common cold with a runny nose may be caused by factors such as nasal mucosa irritation, excessive fatigue, upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, or nasal polyps. Treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. It is important to maintain personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, and avoid contact with allergens. A balanced diet, enhanced physical fitness, and improved immunity are also recommended.