All You Need to Know About Chronic Cough in Commack, NY
It’s common that your child might deal with a cough every once in a while, but when does a cough become a more serious issue? A cough can turn chronic if it’s persistent and lasts more than four weeks. It’s important that you talk to your pediatrician if your child is dealing with a chronic cough so that they can determine what’s causing their chronic cough and how it can be treated.
Signs of a Chronic Cough
Coughs can come and go, but when it doesn’t leave, it can cause further issues and can impact your child’s quality of life. Chronic cough can usually be seen with other symptoms, which can help your child’s pediatrician determine the root cause of your child’s chronic cough. You may notice that your child is also dealing with a stuffy nose, sore throat, wheezing, hoarseness, heartburn, and frequent throat clearing.
In severe cases, your child might also start feeling lightheaded, nauseous, and might have rib pain from a fractured rib. Chronic cough can also impact your child’s sleep, making them exhausted throughout the day and unable to focus on schoolwork.
Treating a Chronic Cough
Chronic cough can be caused by various issues, such as the common cold, influenza, allergies, bronchitis, lung cancer, asthma, acid reflux, sinusitis, or sarcoidosis. Depending on what the cause of your child’s chronic cough is, their pediatrician will be able to create a treatment plan to fit their needs and help them start feeling normal again. They may need anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, or additional oxygen. You may be able to give your child over-the-counter pain medications depending on what your doctor says is okay.
Contact Your Child’s Pediatrician Today!
If you’ve noticed that your child has been constantly coughing for weeks, there might be something more serious at play. Contact your pediatrician at Bezack Pediatric Pulmonology in Commack, NY, today at (631) 499-1298 to find out what’s causing your child’s chronic cough.