Understanding Cough in Kids: Home Remedies, Red Flags, and When to Seek Care

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Dr. Alison Spatz Levine Pediatrician Boulder, CO

Dr. Alison Levine is a pediatrician practicing in Boulder, CO. Dr. Levine started Fig Tree Pediatrics because she is passionate about fostering healthy, joyful lives for children and their families. Dr. Levine combines medical expertise with a holistic approach, prioritizing patient centered, wellness focused, personalized... more

Understanding Cough in Kids: Home Remedies, Red Flags, and When to Seek Care

Coughs are a normal part of childhood and often come with colds, flu, or other illnesses. While they’re usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable and worrisome for both kids and parents. Knowing how to handle a cough at home, when to be concerned, and what to steer clear of can make the whole experience a lot less stressful.

Why Do Kids Cough?

Coughing is the body’s way of clearing out mucus, irritants, or anything else bothering the airway. Here are some common reasons kids cough:

  • Viral infections: Like colds or the flu.
  • Allergies or asthma: These can come with wheezing or itchy, watery eyes.
  • Postnasal drip: Mucus dripping down the back of the throat can trigger coughing.
  • Whooping cough (pertussis): A bacterial infection with intense coughing fits.
  • Foreign object aspiration: Especially in little ones who like to explore with their mouths.
  • Environmental irritants: Smoke, dust, or pollution can aggravate the airways.

When Should You Be Concerned About a Cough?

Most coughs aren’t serious, but some signs mean it’s time to call the doctor:

  • Breathing trouble: Rapid, shallow breathing, flaring nostrils, or a bluish tint to the lips or face.
  • High fever: Especially if it sticks around for more than 3 days or your child seems extra tired.
  • Cough lasting more than 3 weeks: Could be a sign of something like asthma or a lingering infection.
  • Whooping sound: A "whoop" noise after coughing could mean pertussis.
  • Chest pain: Severe or ongoing pain could point to pneumonia or another issue.
  • Coughing up blood: This needs immediate attention.
  • Sudden, severe coughing: Especially if you suspect your child might have choked on something.

Simple Home Remedies for Cough Relief

  1. Keep Them Hydrated:
    • Water, clear soups, or warm herbal teas can thin mucus and soothe a sore throat.
  2. Honey (for kids over 1 year):
    • A teaspoon of honey can work wonders for nighttime coughs and throat discomfort. Just don’t give honey to babies under 1 year due to botulism risk.
  3. Chest Rubs:
    • Try a child-safe chest rub to ease coughing and help everyone get a better night’s sleep. Avoid adult versions, which might contain unsafe ingredients.
  4. Saline Nasal Spray or Drops:
  5. Warm Fluids:
    • Chicken broth or warm herbal tea can be soothing and comforting.

Medications to Avoid for Kids

Some medicines might seem like a quick fix, but they can do more harm than good:

  • Cough suppressants and cold medicines: Not safe or effective for children under 6 years and can cause unwanted side effects.
  • Aspirin: Never give aspirin to kids due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
  • Adult medications: Stick to treatments specifically made for kids.

When to Call the Doctor

If the cough isn’t improving or comes with other concerning symptoms, reach out to your child’s doctor. Get help right away if:

  • Your child is having trouble breathing or there’s noisy breathing (like wheezing or stridor).
  • You think they might have inhaled a small object.
  • They seem unusually sleepy or hard to wake.
  • The cough is paired with a high fever that’s not getting better.
  • The cough lasts more than 2-3 weeks without signs of gradual improvement.

Tips to Prevent Coughs and Colds

Want to keep those coughs at bay? Here’s how:

  • Wash hands often: It’s the easiest way to stop germs from spreading.
  • Change clothes and wash face and hands after school or childcare
  • Keep smoke away: Secondhand smoke can make coughing worse.
  • Stay on top of vaccines: Shots like the flu vaccine and pertussis vaccine are important.
  • Teach good coughing habits: Show kids how to cough into their elbow or use a tissue.

The Bottom Line

Coughs can be annoying, but they’re usually not a big deal. Knowing when to try home remedies and when to call the doctor makes all the difference. Trust your gut and don’t hesitate to get help if something doesn’t feel right. You’ve got this—being an informed and caring parent is the best medicine for your little one!