What are the methods for quickly relieving cough in children?
Generally, children's cough may be caused by dry air, inhalation of irritant gases, colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other reasons. Cough relief can be achieved through general treatments and medication under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Air
Dry air causes the respiratory mucosa to lose moisture, resulting in dryness and triggering a cough reflex to stimulate mucus secretion and maintain moisture in the airways. Using humidifiers to increase air humidity, encouraging the child to drink more water, and consuming fruits and vegetables with high water content are recommended.
2. Inhalation of Irritant Gases
Inhalation of irritants such as smoke, dust, or pollen by children can affect the respiratory mucosa and trigger a cough reflex aimed at clearing foreign substances from the airway. Exposure to irritant gases should be avoided, and masks should be worn when going outdoors.
3. Common Cold
Colds are mostly caused by viruses, such as influenza virus and rhinovirus. Viral infections lead to congestion, swelling, and inflammation of the respiratory mucosa, which stimulates the respiratory nerves and causes coughing. Symptoms such as runny nose and nasal congestion may also occur. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ribavirin granules, ibuprofen suspension, and children's cough syrup can be used for treatment.
4. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infection of the bronchi. The inflammation may cause congestion and edema of the bronchial mucosa, increased mucus secretion, and irritation of the respiratory tract, leading to coughing. Patients may also experience symptoms such as sputum production and wheezing. Under a doctor's recommendation, medications like salbutamol aerosol, terbutaline, and aminophylline tablets can be used for treatment.
5. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is usually caused by bacterial, viral, mycoplasma, or other microbial infections in the lungs, leading to lung inflammation and dysfunction, increased exudate in the alveoli, and irritation of the respiratory tract, which causes coughing. Symptoms such as fever and rapid breathing may also accompany. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as cefixime granules, dextromethorphan hydrobromide syrup, and azithromycin dry suspension for treatment.
Attention should be paid to children's dietary hygiene, avoiding allergenic foods. At the same time, children should be encouraged to exercise regularly to strengthen their constitution and improve immunity.