Patient's question:
The child is 8 years old and often suffers from a dry, non-productive cough that has not been resolved despite treatment. What could be the cause and is there any effective remedy? Since childhood, whenever the child has a stomachache, they cough, and it's usually a dry, non-productive cough. They often need intravenous drips for 5-7 days to feel better. The latest episode started last winter and has been intermittent ever since, with coughing occurring every few days. Medication provides temporary relief, but once stopped, the cough returns. It's worse during the day, and they don't cough much while sleeping or taking naps. When asked, they say their throat feels itchy.Previous Treatment and Effects:
Generally, the child has been treated at the community health clinic with anti-inflammatory and lung-clearing medications, injections (including), and intravenous drips. The cough is somewhat relieved when medication is taken, but it returns once stopped.
Desired Help:
The child's persistent cough has been very exhausting for the family. Could you please help determine the cause of this symptom? What is this condition called? Is there any specific medication that can cure it or at least provide longer-lasting relief?
Doctor's answer:
Based on your description and the integration of many recent similar cases, your condition is caused by an infectious virus, exhibiting symptoms of herpetic pharyngitis induced by the herpes virus.Recommendations:
It is recommended to add herbal medicine products with heat-clearing and detoxifying properties to your conventional anti-inflammatory treatment, such as Andrographis paniculata capsules. For cough, you can use Nian Jia An, and for treating pharyngitis, you can use Manman Shunlin.
The above advice is for the question "My 8-year-old child often has a dry, non-phlegm cough and it persists." I hope it helps you. Wishing you good health!