Cough
Coughing is a defence mechanism. It’s the body’s way of getting rid of mucus. For example, children may cough when they have a respiratory infection such as a cold or flu (see Colds, flu and other respiratory infections).
Coughing is also a way to dislodge a foreign body (small object or other). Foreign bodies can cause a cough immediately after being drawn into the airway, or several days later.
What to do
If your child seems to have a lot of mucus, you can clean out their nose (see Stuffed-up or runny nose).
If they have a fever, see What to do if your child has a fever.
Make sure they drink enough fluids. Some children prefer warm drinks when they are sick.
If your child has a hoarse voice or barking cough that sounds like a barking dog, this usually indicates laryngitis (also known as “false croup”). To relieve your child’s cough, have them breathe cold air for a few minutes: bundle them up warmly and take them outdoors, or open a window or the freezer door. Cold air will calm the inflammation in the throat (larynx).
Health Canada advises against giving cough and cold medications (syrups, suppositories, etc.) to children under the age of 6. They are not effective and can be dangerous for young children.
When to consult a health professional
See a doctor if your child:
- Coughs a lot and is less than 3 months old.
- Is coughing to the point of choking or vomiting.
- Has had a cough for more than 10 days.
See a doctor right away if your child is coughing and also shows any of the following signs:
- Has trouble breathing or laboured breathing.
- Has chest retractions (the skin pulls in between their ribs or beneath their rib cage).
- Is wheezing or breathing noisily and rapidly.
- You think their cough might be caused by a foreign body in their airway.
- You are concerned about their overall health.
Call 9-1-1 if the situation seems serious and urgent enough that you need an ambulance.
An Info-Santé nurse (8-1-1) can advise you at any time.