Cough, do we have a problem?
"Houston, we have a problem," was the emergency call from the Apollo 13 mission. In the paediatrician's office, it's "Cough, do we have a problem?" Because a cough, even a long-lasting cough, does not automatically mean that there is a serious problem.
What always applies to children naturally also applies to coughs: the child's general condition is decisive. A child who is agile, active and jumping around cannot have an acute respiratory infection. This is because if a child is not able to breathe/get air optimally, the body automatically stops using energy first. In other words: the child moves noticeably less, is tired and tired more quickly. So if it could be something more serious, you will certainly notice it.
Incidentally, a cough is not a disease in itself, but a symptom. People cough because they want to expel something from their airways: mucus, foreign bodies, etc.
Here's how to deal with your child's cough:
Infants, first year of life: An infant who coughs but is fit - consult the doctor. An infant who coughs and does not seem fit - see a doctor quickly.
From the first year of life: A cough that lasts four to six weeks (with a good general condition) does not necessarily require clarification. If the cough lasts longer, the paediatrician should be consulted in any case. Of course also if there are clear suspicions: Child has questionably swallowed something, always coughs when in contact with animals, etc.
Coughing is actually a major therapeutic challenge. Especially in small children, it is almost always caused by viral infections that cannot really be treated causally. Cough syrups are controversial among paediatricians. There is a lack of good evidence of efficacy; herbal products such as ivy juices can provide some relief, but they do not heal. Cough suppressants are also controversial because they do not change anything causally. They can possibly ensure that a child gets more rest at night, but they often have to cough up even more in the morning because the cough stimulus was suppressed at night.
Honey is a very natural remedy that should be taken seriously as it can have a soothing effect on cough symptoms. Honey can be given from the first birthday, not before!
Many viral infections in infancy are not wrongly regarded as good training for the immune system. After 15 years of practice, I can only confirm this: Some children have what feels like a continuous cough between the ages of two and four - and then never again.
And very important, both preventively and when children suffer from a cough: Ensure a smoke-free environment!
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