Manifestations of dry cough in babies
Dry cough in children is the main manifestation of pediatric rhinitis. Most pediatric rhinitis is allergic in nature, and the symptoms are nasal congestion, sneezing when encountering cold air, runny nose, nasal reflux, memory loss, and poor sense of smell. Many children may also have itchy nose, itchy eyes and watery eyes, which are manifested by repeatedly rubbing the nose (picking the nose) and rubbing the eyes, called allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Many children with allergic rhinitis can develop a sudden paroxysmal cough (mainly dry cough) or even asthma, called “allergic rhinitis asthma syndrome”.
What are the causes of dry cough in babies?
In rhinitis, inflammatory secretions in the nose can flow into the lungs or be inhaled through the postnasal orifice and pharynx, called postnasal drip syndrome. In particular, the unconscious flow of inflammatory secretions from the nose into the airway during sleep in the supine position is most likely an important reason for the development of allergic rhinitis into asthma (especially nocturnal asthma). Changes in breathing patterns are also one of the factors that lead to a close relationship between allergic rhinitis and asthma.
Unusual coughs should be carefully identified
If a child’s cough is very violent and lasts for a long time, it may be related to some diseases. At this time, parents should make timely judgments based on certain criteria and take their child to the doctor as soon as possible.
Symptom 1: “Light in the morning and heavy at night”
The cough is characterized by a cough that is relieved during the day and becomes severe at night. When the condition is severe, it also emits an ear-piercing wheezing sound, which is similar to the sound of a child sobbing after a long period of crying.
Suspected diagnosis: pseudomembranous laryngitis
Response.
When a child coughs at night, parents can open the bedroom window to let fresh air into the room while making sure the child is warm. The cooler, more humid air will help relieve the symptoms of respiratory distention. If he coughs more and more or has difficulty breathing, he should be taken to the hospital immediately for treatment.
Symptom 2: Violent bouts of coughing
Cough characteristics: A violent, hoarse paroxysmal cough with a sharp roaring sound when the child inhales hard.
Suspected diagnosis: Whooping cough.
Response.
If the cough persists and does not get better, you should take him to the doctor.
Symptom 3: Coughing after eating
Cough characteristics: The child develops shortness of breath and a persistent, raspy cough after eating.
Suspected diagnosis: Reflux esophagitis.
Response.
Keep the child in an upright position for 30 minutes after eating and sleep with the head slightly elevated. If there is still no improvement, seek early medical attention.
Symptom 4: The most sensitive cough
Characteristics of cough: A persistent cough often accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath that worsens at night or after exercise, especially when exposed to pollen, cold air, animal dander, dust or smoke.
Suspected diagnosis: Asthma.
Response.
Go to the hospital for careful examination in order to confirm the diagnosis. If there is a family history of allergies, asthma or eczema, you should tell your doctor because in this case, the child is more likely to have asthma.
Symptom 5: Cough from the throat
Characteristics of cough: A slightly hoarse cough emanating from the throat, at intervals, sometimes dry, sometimes with phlegm, and the child cries out for a tingling and tickling throat.
Suspected diagnosis: common cold, flu, respiratory viral infection.
Response.
In addition to cooperating with the doctor’s treatment, you should give your child more water and use a humidifier to relieve the symptoms of airway congestion.
Symptom 6: Cough with breathing distress
Cough characteristics: Cough with phlegm or with shortness of breath, short, weak breathing, or breathing difficulties.
Suspected diagnosis: Bronchitis.
Response.
If your child has difficulty breathing and is unable to eat or drink, take him to the hospital immediately; if your child’s symptoms are mild, just shortness of breath without symptoms such as dyspnea, parents can put a humidifier in your child’s room to help get rid of the mucus in his lungs and make sure your child drinks enough water.