Is Your Baby Suffering From a Chesty Cough?

A chesty cough can cause a runny nose, sore throat, mild fever, and productive mucus or phlegm in your child. The cough is the body's natural process to evacuate the irritant or build-up formed in the throat. It can be difficult to see your little one experiencing the symptoms of a chesty cough. However, by understanding the underlying causes of your baby's chesty cough, you can help your child get relief from the irritating symptoms.

Common causes of a baby chesty cough

There are various factors that can contribute to your child's cough. The most probable reasons include the following:

Cold and other viruses - This is the most common reason for your child's cough. A viral infection can lead to chesty coughs.

Croup - The most common sign of croup is a high-pitched cough sound that sounds like a bark. It, usually, gets worse in the night and can also cause a whistling sound when your baby breathes.

Bronchiolitis - It is an infection of the chest and can cause wheezing and coughing.

Smoke - If your child is exposed to smoking, it can cause the symptoms of a cough.

Hay fever- It can be triggered by animal hair, moulds or dust mites, and can cause sneezing and a runny nose in addition to a chesty cough.

Allergy - If your baby is allergic to any allergens, it can result in cough symptoms in your child. Under such an event, it is advisable that you visit a doctor.

Asthma - It is a chronic symptom and can result in periodic attacks of coughing in response to an allergic reaction, exercise, or exposure to cold air.

How can you help your child?

It is important that your child stays hydrated. For babies less than six months old, it is advisable that you stick to formula milk or breast milk. For younger kids, you can try giving them an electrolyte solution, diluted juice, or milk.

If your little one is really struggling, medications specially designed for children can help to relieve their symptoms and give your child a restful sleep. These medicines can come in many forms including syrups, sachets, and even herbal vapour plug ins.

Honey and lemon can also help to to soothe their sore throat and calm a cough. Mix some honey and a few drops of lemon into warm water for a soothing, calming drink. Babies under 1 year old should not be given honey. You can also try herbal teas such as green tea or thyme tea to provide relief to your child.

Steam can do wonders for your child chest cough and help them to clear stubborn mucus. Try a steamy shower, bath, or simply a bowl of water. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or sage to the water for additional benefits.

You should speak to your midwife, health visitor, or doctor before trying any treatment or medication. Also, if you see any severe symptoms, you should take your child to an expert immediately.

When to consult a doctor?

Babies often cough when they have a cold and there is mucus accumulating down the back of the throat. If your baby is drinking, feeding, eating, and breathing properly, it is usually not a serious condition. However, you should consult a doctor under the following circumstances: