Patient's question:
My baby has had a cough that comes and goes for about half a year. When I took him to the hospital for injections, it improved for about a week, but then the cough returned. The doctor said it was bronchitis and that the injections and medication helped. I wonder if it's because I gave him some biscuit-like snacks. What should I do about my son's persistent cough?Doctor's answer:
Hello, coughs in children should not be ignored. Cough is a common illness among children, especially during autumn and winter seasons. Coughs generally do not require cough suppressants, as when the lower respiratory tract has secretions (also known as phlegm), coughing is the way to expel them. If cough suppressants are used, they will suppress the cough reflex, leading to the accumulation of phlegm in the trachea and bronchi, which may worsen the condition or cause secondary infections. However, when frequent coughing significantly affects sleep or eating and causes distress to the patient, cough suppressants can be used cautiously.