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Cough in Children

The cause and duration of cough and accompanying symptoms guide accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Cough in Children?

Cough is a protective reflex that helps clear the airways. Acute cough (<3 weeks) is usually due to viral upper respiratory infections, while chronic cough (>8 weeks) may indicate asthma, gastro-oesophageal reflux or another underlying disease.

Characteristic cough sounds can guide diagnosis: a 'barking' cough suggests croup, and a paroxysmal cough followed by a deep inspiratory whoop suggests pertussis. Cough that worsens at night is typical of asthma and reflux.

Antitussive medications are not routinely recommended in children under 6 years and may be harmful. Honey (over 1 year of age), warm drinks and humidification provide effective symptomatic relief.

Symptoms

Dry or productive cough
Cough that worsens at night or with exercise (asthma)
Barking, hoarse cough (croup)
Paroxysmal cough followed by a forceful inspiration (whoop) — pertussis
Cough with wheezing
Blood or yellow-green sputum

Risk Factors

Exposure to passive smoke
Nursery or school environment
Family history of asthma or allergy
Gastro-oesophageal reflux
Foreign-body aspiration (especially 1–3 years)
Immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When cough lasts more than 3 weeks
  • When blood is seen in sputum
  • When cough is accompanied by shortness of breath or fast breathing
  • When foreign-body aspiration is suspected (sudden, unilateral cough)
  • When pertussis is suspected or there has been a household contact

Treatment Methods

01
In viral URI: plenty of fluids, steam, honey (over 1 year), saline nasal spray
02
In asthma: short-acting beta-2 agonist (salbutamol) and prophylactic inhaled corticosteroid
03
In croup: dexamethasone (single dose) and nebulised epinephrine if needed
04
In pertussis: early administration of azithromycin
05
In chronic cough: treatment of the underlying cause (reflux, asthma, foreign body)
06
Elimination of smoke exposure

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.