#asktheexpert dr mere bache ko cough hogayi h .. mere doctor ne (Ascoril LS) drops diya h 4 din hogaye par isko kch kam nhi hua .. what to do? Please tell

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Your 4-month-old baby suffering from a cough can be concerning, especially if the prescribed Scoril Ellesh drops haven't shown improvement after 4 days. Here's what you can consider:

1. Reevaluate the Cough: Type of cough: Is the cough dry or wet? A wet cough could indicate mucus buildup, while a dry cough could point to irritation or allergies. Associated symptoms: Check if there’s fever, difficulty breathing, or if your baby is feeding poorly or seems very lethargic. These signs could indicate an underlying infection or condition requiring different treatment. 2. Ensure Proper Hydration: Ensure that your baby is drinking plenty of breast milk or formula, as hydration helps loosen mucus, easing the cough. You can also offer small sips of water (if your baby is able to take it at this age), though breast milk or formula should still be the primary source of fluids. 3. Nasal Congestion: Clear the baby's nose if it’s congested using saline nasal drops or a nasal aspirator to help with breathing. A humidifier in the room can help keep the air moist, easing congestion and the cough. 4. Monitor for Breathing Difficulty: If the baby is showing signs of wheezing, rapid breathing, or straining to breathe, seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate something more serious like a respiratory infection or bronchiolitis. 5. Positioning During Sleep: When the baby sleeps, you can elevate their head slightly to help with coughing and ease breathing. Avoid using pillows in the crib directly, but gently tilting the crib’s head end (with a safe, firm mattress) can be beneficial. 6. Revisit the Doctor: Since 4 days have passed and there’s no improvement, it’s important to contact your pediatrician again. The cough might be due to something that needs a different treatment or could be a sign of another condition such as a cold, allergies, or even an infection. 7. Avoid Cough Syrups for Infants: Avoid over-the-counter cough syrups unless prescribed by the pediatrician. Many of them are not recommended for babies under the age of 6 months. When to Seek Urgent Medical Help: Difficulty breathing (shortness of breath, wheezing). Severe or persistent cough (lasting more than 5-7 days). Signs of a high fever or if the baby is not feeding well or showing other signs of illness.

Since your baby is still quite young, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and consult your pediatrician again for further guidance.