#asktheexpert my son is coughing alot .after every week or two weeks he gets into cold and coughs very badly. he does not even have cold drinks or ice creams..still he faces this torture..please help how do I protect him.

Question

Accepted Answer

Frequent colds and coughs in young children are common, as their immune systems are still developing and they are exposed to various viruses. However, repeated episodes of severe coughing can be concerning and might indicate an underlying issue such as allergies, asthma, or frequent viral infections. Here's what you can do:

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Steps to Manage and Reduce Colds and Coughs:

1. Boost Immunity:

Include immunity-boosting foods in your child’s diet like citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and yogurt.

Ensure adequate hydration with water, soups, and warm fluids.

Provide sufficient sleep and rest to help the body recover and strengthen.

2. Maintain Hygiene:

Wash hands frequently, especially before eating or after coming home from outside.

Avoid close contact with sick individuals, if possible.

3. Home Remedies for Cough and Cold:

Honey (for kids above 1 year): Give 1 tsp of honey mixed with warm water or tulsi (holy basil) juice to soothe the throat.

Steam Inhalation: Helps clear nasal congestion and reduces coughing.

Warm Fluids: Offer warm water, soups, or ginger and honey tea to ease the throat.

Turmeric Milk: A pinch of turmeric in warm milk at night can help fight infections.

4. Check the Environment:

Avoid exposure to smoke, strong perfumes, or allergens like dust and pet dander.

Use a humidifier in the child’s room to keep the air moist, which can reduce coughing caused by dry air.

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When to See a Doctor:

It’s important to consult a pediatrician if:

Cough persists for more than 2 weeks.

There are breathing difficulties, wheezing, or chest retractions.

Fever lasts for more than 3 days or is very high.

Cough produces green or yellow mucus, indicating a possible bacterial infection.

The child appears lethargic, isn’t eating well, or is losing weight.

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Possible Underlying Causes:

1. Allergies: Dust, pollen, or certain foods might trigger frequent coughing.

2. Asthma: Chronic cough that worsens at night or with activity could indicate asthma.

3. Recurrent Infections: Low immunity or exposure to sick individuals at school/daycare.

4. Postnasal Drip: Mucus from the nose dripping into the throat can cause a persistent cough.

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Prevention Tips:

Regularly clean toys and surfaces the child frequently touches.

Teach your child to cough into their elbow to prevent the spread of germs.

Consider flu vaccinations as recommended by the doctor.

Frequent coughs and colds are often part of childhood but can be managed effectively with the right care and medical advice. If the issue persists, a pediatrician might recommend allergy tests or other investigations to rule out chronic conditions.