Patient's question:
Half a month ago, my daughter (almost 7 years old) caught a cold which led to acute bronchitis. I gave her cold medicine, antiviral oral liquid, and antibiotics (Cefixime). After 6 days, her symptoms improved, leaving only mild coughing. Considering the significant harm antibiotics can cause to the body, I stopped the medication. After observing for two more days, I noticed she still had a cough, so I gave her antibiotics for another two days. Then, I switched to Asmol, as she has an allergic constitution. She had asthma when she was 3 or 4 years old (not severe) and had been using beclomethasone nasal spray, which she stopped using half a year ago. Now, she still has a cough. Is my medication approach correct? Should I continue using antibiotics? The use of antibiotics has been troubling me veryDoctor's answer:
Hello, chronic cough with phlegm should be treated based on the principle of expectoration, not just cough suppression, to avoid worsening the condition or causing airway obstruction. You can choose from N-acetylcysteine, ambroxol hydrochloride, guaifenesin, and traditional Chinese medicine expectorants. Antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine, loratadine, and cetirizine can also be taken. In daily life, it's important to drink plenty of water. You can give the child pediatric cefixime granules and pediatric cough syrup, encourage them to drink more water, offer honey-cooked pears, or drink honey water, which can help with cough relief.