What could be the reason for a six-month-old baby coughing without any cold symptoms?

Jun 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My baby is six months old and has no symptoms of a cold, but has started coughing. I'd like to know what could be causing this?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
A 6-month-old baby who has no cold symptoms but is coughing may be experiencing cough due to the following reasons: 1. Upper respiratory tract infection: Coughing is one of the common symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, which may be caused by viruses (such as influenza virus, rhinovirus, etc.). This type of cough may be accompanied by mild throat discomfort but does not necessarily present typical cold symptoms. 2. Bronchitis: Bronchitis can also cause coughing, possibly accompanied by nasal congestion and runny nose. It is often caused by viral infections as well. 3. Airway irritation: The airways of a 6-month-old infant are relatively sensitive and may cough in response to dry air, dust, or other irritants. 4. Foreign body aspiration: If the baby accidentally inhales small foreign objects, such as food particles, it may also trigger coughing.