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Kids Coughing 101 - What You Need to Know
Kids Coughing 101 - What You Need to Know
In the pediatric ER, cough is one of the most common complaints we get from parents. It brings millions of parents to emergency rooms across the country looking for relief. Many times, parents do their own investigating to determine what coughing means for their kids.
- Does a wet cough mean pneumonia?
- Does a barking cough automatically mean croup?
Today we are breaking down what your child’s cough means and how you can treat the symptoms.
There are many reasons why your child may cough. It can be as simple as an irritation of the throat, a common cold, or it can be an indication of something more chronic, like seasonal allergies or asthma. In order to successfully treat a cough, it’s important to determine and diagnose the cause of the cough.
Let’s look at a few different types of coughing and break them down into what you need to look out for as a parent.
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Kids Coughing 101 - What You Need to Know
Kids Coughing 101 - What You Need to Know
Kids Coughing 101 - What You Need to Know
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In the pediatric ER, cough is one of the most common complaints we get from parents. It brings millions of parents to emergency rooms across the country looking for relief. Many times, parents do their own investigating to determine what coughing means for their kids.
- Does a wet cough mean pneumonia?
- Does a barking cough automatically mean croup?
Today we are breaking down what your child’s cough means and how you can treat the symptoms.
There are many reasons why your child may cough. It can be as simple as an irritation of the throat, a common cold, or it can be an indication of something more chronic, like seasonal allergies or asthma. In order to successfully treat a cough, it’s important to determine and diagnose the cause of the cough.
Let’s look at a few different types of coughing and break them down into what you need to look out for as a parent.
Illness Causing Coughing in Kids
One of the most common causes for cough is a viral illness. This type of cough will typically present with other symptoms, including fever, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, and possibly even vomiting or diarrhea.
Many times, a cough due to an illness can linger for up to 3 weeks and can be dry or wet depending on the type of virus.
Barking Cough
A barking cough is the common sound associated with croup. Croup is a common illness for children ages 3 months to 5 years. It is a virus that causes swelling of the upper airway (voice box and windpipe). It often starts out just like a cold, but as the swelling increases, your child’s cough will start to sound like the bark of a dog. Your child’s voice may become hoarse, and their breathing will be heavy and loud.
A great tip and home remedy for croup is to use steam to help soothe the airway. Have your child sit in a bathroom full of steam created by hot water from the tub or shower.
As croup progresses and your child’s airway becomes more swollen, you may hear a whistling noise, called stridor. If your child displays any of these symptoms or is having difficulty breathing, please see your pediatrician.
What's the difference between a wet cough and a dry cough?
Many parents will refer to their child’s cough as wet or dry. But how can you tell them apart?
A dry cough can be associated with an irritation in the upper airway, located more through the sinuses, throat, and vocal cords. A wet cough is associated with the lower airway, which produces mucus as a response to irritation. Many things can cause either a wet or dry cough.
Having a particular type of cough does not automatically mean your child has a particular illness. For instance, a wet cough does not necessarily mean your child has pneumonia. Always consult your pediatrician if you are concerned about your child’s persistent cough or associated symptoms.
Important Update: Acetaminophen
There’s been a lot of talk recently about misleading claims that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy can cause autism. We’ve pulled together some FAQs and answers to help families.
Learn more and get the facts about acetaminophenAllergies or Asthma Causing Coughing in Kids
A cough that is caused by allergies or asthma can typically be associated with a feeling of tightness in the chest and shortness of breath. This type of cough can lead to wheezing, which can best be heard during a physical exam from a doctor.
Wheezing is a distinctive, high pitched whistling sound that usually happens as your child is breathing out. It sounds as if it is coming from the chest, rather than the nose.
Although an illness or obstruction can cause wheezing, the most common cause is asthma and allergies.
Typically, a cough caused by allergies and asthma will last for a long time, whereas a cough caused by a virus will most likely resolve in 2-3 weeks. Unlike a viral cough that can worsen over a few days, coughing from asthma or allergies is mostly sudden in nature and possibly triggered by your surroundings (outdoor pollen, pet dander, etc.).
A NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
Reflux Causing Coughing in Kids
Although not as common, children can cough due to acid reflux. Typically, that’s when stomach acids flow back up into the esophagus. This acid can irritate the esophagus and lead to coughing. Associated symptoms might include upper stomach and chest pain, a burning sensation in the throat, and a bad taste in the mouth.
Tips for Parents
When should parents worry about a child’s cough and go to the emergency room?
Although persistent coughing can be incredibly stressful for a family, it doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something dangerous happening. Many illnesses are associated with a lingering cough.
However, you should look out for certain signs and symptoms that require immediate medical attention. If your child is vomiting, having difficulty breathing, or experiencing chest tightness, shortness of breath, and high fever, you should seek medical attention for further imaging and management.
Common Treatments for a Child’s Cough
After being evaluated by your pediatrician, your child may be prescribed a prescription medicine to treat their cough. There are also over-the-counter (OTC) medications and natural remedies available that can further help relieve your child’s symptoms.
- Cough and cold medications
There are many over-the-counter (OTC) cold medications and cough syrups for kids which are helpful. When using these OTC medications, look closely at the active ingredients and age requirements. Cold and cough medications are NOT recommended for children under the age of 4. When introducing any medication, whether OTC or prescription, it’s important to have a discussion with your pediatrician first and review the options for safe use. - Honey
Honey is a time-honored treatment for cough relief. If your child is over the age of 1 year old, you can give them a lukewarm cup of water with buckwheat honey. Many parents of older children find honey to be helpful, especially with relief of nighttime coughing!
Safe use tips for honey
Do not give honey if your child is under 1 year old due to the risk of infant botulism.
- Steam
Go into your bathroom, shut the door, and put the shower on as hot as it will go. Let your child play in the bathroom for 15 minutes to allow the steam to help break up any mucus
Safe use tips for steam
Keep your child away from the hot water source to prevent burns.
- Saline drops and suction
Saline drops with suction are a great way to break up nasal congestion! However, use this method sparingly, especially if your child is an infant. Frequent suctioning can lead to inflammation in the nasal passages, which may actually cause more congestion. I recommend suctioning before bedtime and with feeds, when necessary. - Humidifier
Putting moisture into the air is one of the best ways to treat congestion or nighttime cough. However, make sure the water is fresh and sterile to prevent expelling bacteria and germs into the air. Use a cool mist humidifier rather than the warm mist variety to avoid potential burns. - Elevation
Raise your child’s head slightly using a pillow during their naps and bedtime. If your child is too young for a pillow, put something under the mattress to slightly raise the side of the mattress where your child’s head rests. This slight elevation helps to keep your child’s nasal passages open while they sleep.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
The source or cause of coughing can be complex and difficult to diagnose. If your child is suffering with a cough, speak with your pediatrician to determine the best treatment plan to get your child feeling better soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It strengthens your enamel, repairs early signs of damage, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugar.
Is fluoride toothpaste still the most effective option, or are fluoride-free formulas just as good?
Fluoride is still the gold standard for cavity protection. Fluoride-free options can clean your teeth, but they don’t offer the same enamel-strengthening power.
Is fluoride safe for daily use?
Yes. When used as directed, fluoride is safe and effective. It’s been trusted and recommended by major health organizations for over 70 years.
How does fluoride actually protect teeth?
It strengthens enamel, repairs early signs of decay, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugary foods.
Are there any risks to using fluoride long-term?
The main risk—especially for young kids—is swallowing too much, which can lead to mild fluorosis. Using the right amount prevents this. For parents, supervise brushing to ensure kids spit out the toothpaste and don't swallow it.
At what age should kids start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears!
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
Is fluoride still safe and recommended for kids with all the claims online?
Yes. A lot of online claims can be confusing, but decades of research show fluoride is safe and strongly recommended for cavity prevention when used properly.
How much fluoride should my child get from toothpaste?
Use age-appropriate amounts and brush twice a day. If your water isn’t fluoridated, ask your dentist about additional options.
How do I know which kids’ toothpaste claims are real and not just marketing?
Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and choose brands your dentist recommends.
Do fluoride-free or “natural” toothpastes protect kids from cavities?
They can help clean teeth, but they don’t provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpastes.
Are fluoride-free toothpastes just as effective for adults?
Not for cavity prevention. Fluoride-free toothpastes can help with cleaning and freshening breath, but they do not protect against cavities the way fluoride does. For adults, or anyone who is prone to cavities, fluoride toothpaste remains the most effective option for preventing tooth decay.
Do fluoride alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) make a difference?
Yes—nHAp can help with sensitivity and early enamel repair. But it hasn’t matched fluoride’s cavity-prevention strength in studies.
How do I compare fluoride vs. fluoride-free options if I have sensitivity or enamel wear?
Fluoride is best for strengthening enamel. nHAp may help with sensitivity. Some people benefit from using both in a balanced routine.
Are whitening toothpastes safe to use with fluoride or fluoride-free products?
Most are safe but can be abrasive. Choose gentle formulas and avoid using them every single day—especially for kids.
What should I look for when choosing an OTC toothpaste?
Pick products with proven active ingredients (like fluoride), check for the ADA Seal, and avoid unnecessary additives or sweeteners.
Does fluoride affect hormones or the brain?
No credible scientific evidence shows fluoride at levels used in toothpaste or fluoridated water disrupts hormones or causes neurodevelopmental harm.
What should I do if my community stops adding fluoride to the water?
Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses, and talk to a dentist about fluoride supplements for kids.
Do fluoride supplements have side effects?
They’re safe when used under dental guidance and typically recommended for children in areas without fluoridated water.
What’s the best way to make sure I’m getting enough fluoride?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated tap water if available, and ask your dentist for personalized advice if you’re cavity-prone.