How to handle a child who constantly coughs up phlegm

Patient's question:

Patient Age: 5
Detailed Condition and Purpose of Consultation: The child has been coughing constantly, and even after taking anti-inflammatory and cough medications, it hasn't improved.

Doctor's answer:

Hello: According to your description, it is recommended to have a Mycoplasma antibody test, as Mycoplasma can cause prolonged coughing.
If there is phlegm that is difficult to cough up, you can use a nebulizer to help your child expel the phlegm.
At the same time, please pay attention to the following:
（1）Keep the indoor air fresh, with a room temperature around 20℃ and a certain level of humidity.
（2）Give your child more water or fruit. When your child is coughing, avoid feeding them milk, water, or medicine to prevent choking.
（3）Pay attention to your child's oral hygiene. Use warm water or mild salt water to brush their teeth before and after meals. Before bedtime, have your child brush their teeth. For younger children, you can use a cloth dipped in warm water or mild salt water to wipe their mouth.
（4）Have your child lie on their side and turn them frequently to facilitate phlegm drainage. Remove any foreign objects from their mouth and nose to maintain smooth breathing.
（5）Do not smoke inside the home or cook indoors to avoid the irritation of smoke and other odors to the trachea, which could worsen the cough.
（6）Monitor your child's condition at all times. If they develop high fever, chest pain, cough up purulent or bloody phlegm, or experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.