Ten reasons to call the pediatrician about a cough

Every child gets a cough from time to time; there’s really no escaping them. It’s completely normal for children to catch several colds a year, especially if they are in daycare or go to school, and common allergies can cause a cough too. Most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about. Most of the time, some rest, plenty of fluids, honey (for children over a year old) and some patience and TLC do the trick. But sometimes, it’s important to call the doctor. Here’s when you should worry about a cough: 1. Your child is having trouble breathing. Signs of this include: Breathing quickly “Sucking in” around the ribs or front of the neck Having trouble talking or crying Not wanting to eat or drink Acting much sleepier than usual Looking pale or blue 2. Your child is having trouble swallowing. This could be a sign that your child is coughing because something is blocking his throat. If your child won’t swallow or is drooling much more than usual, that could be an emergency. 3. There is a high fever (102 degrees or higher) or any fever that lasts more than 3-5 days. Most of the time this isn’t a big deal, just a virus, but it’s good to check in with your doctor — especially if your child is acting really cranky or sleepy or the cough seems particularly bad to you — to be sure there isn’t a more serious infection going on. 4. The cough is constant. Coughing here and there is fine, but a nonstop cough can be a sign of trouble. 5. You hear a wheeze with the co...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Health & Wellness Claire McCarthy MD cough Source Type: news