What does it mean when a child coughs up yellow phlegm?

Apr 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Today I noticed that my son has been coughing constantly and producing yellow phlegm. What could be the cause of a child coughing with yellow phlegm?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Pediatric cough with yellow phlegm may be caused by respiratory tract infections, which usually lead to bronchitis and tracheitis. As the disease progresses, damage to the airway mucosa may occur, potentially leading to secondary bacterial infection and inflammation. For pediatric cough with yellow phlegm caused by respiratory tract infections, oral administration of Cefixime granules or Azithromycin dry suspension can be considered. However, it should be noted that Cefixime granules are suitable only for infants older than 6 months.