If your child has a chronic cough, it can be worrying. We offer expert exams to diagnose the cause of your child’s cough and personalized treatment to ease their cough and address the underlying cause. Call Caring Pediatrics today for compassionate pediatric health care.
What causes a chronic cough?
Bronchitis is the most common cause of chronic cough in children. Many other health conditions can also cause a chronic cough, including:
Viral upper respiratory tract infections
Sinus infections
Asthma
Stomach and esophageal conditions like acid reflux
Inhaled foreign substance
Children might also develop a dry cough that becomes persistent and productive, or they could have a cough that outlasts a viral infection like a cold.
If your child is exposed to smoke or other airborne irritants, it could cause a chronic cough. Children can also develop habitual coughs that don’t have a physical cause.
When should I talk to a doctor about my child’s cough?
If your child has a cold or another respiratory infection, their symptoms, including a cough, should go away within two weeks.
If your child’s symptoms persist, make an appointment with the team at Pediatrics Healthcare Associates to find out what’s causing their cough and get the customized treatment they need.
How is the cause of a chronic cough diagnosed?
Our providers provides comprehensive exams and testing to identify the cause of your child’s cough.
After reviewing their medical history and symptoms, your pediatrician listens to your child’s lungs and heart. They also examine their throat, nose, and ears.
Your pediatrician might suggest a diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy to examine your child’s lungs or pulmonary function tests like spirometry to measure the amount of air that moves in and out of their lungs.
If your doctor suspects that a condition like reflux is the root cause of your child’s cough, they might also order an endoscopy to examine their esophagus, stomach, and esophageal sphincter.
How is a chronic cough treated?
Your pediatrician provides personalized treatment to address the condition causing your child’s cough. In many cases, they can prescribe medications both to soothe your child’s cough and treat the underlying cause.
Their doctor might also recommend lifestyle adjustments to reduce your child’s exposure to substances that trigger their cough. This could include dietary changes to minimize reflux or simple change at home to reduce their exposure to dust, pet dander, or pollen.
If you’re concerned about your child’s cough, please setup your appointment now to have your child evaluated.
