How to treat children's nighttime cough exacerbation

Patient's question:

Patient Age: 3 years
Detailed Condition and Purpose of Consultation: Cough, especially severe at night, with sputum threads, and causing nausea and vomiting

Doctor's answer:

If the treatment for bronchitis is ineffective and the cough is severe at night, it should be considered as cough-variant asthma. Treatment for asthma is required to be effective. It is not caused by infection but is related to allergies. Cough-variant asthma has a long duration, primarily characterized by cough, which is worse at night or upon waking. It is usually dry cough and is easily misdiagnosed as bronchitis. However, this condition requires systematic treatment, and after recovery, recurrence prevention is necessary. It is recommended to use bronchodilators to see if there is any relief. If symptoms improve, it can be basically confirmed as asthma.
During seasonal changes or sudden temperature fluctuations, it is important to add or remove clothing for children in a timely manner. Clothing should also be frequently air-dried and disinfected. Avoid consuming foods that may trigger allergic symptoms, such as crabs, shrimp, etc. Do not keep pets or plants at home, and avoid using carpets. Avoid exposure to pollen, dust mites, smoke, paint, and other allergens.
Ensure that the indoor environment, especially children's bedrooms, is well-ventilated and clean.