COUGH

The cough reflex is the body's defense mechanism against mucus accumulation in the bronchial tubes and serves as the primary protection against the development of pneumonia. Coughs are very common and usually not serious, often accompanying a common cold and requiring no treatment. Infants and children under six years should not receive cough suppressant medications unless prescribed by a doctor, due to a risk of developing pneumonia and safety concerns regarding cough and cold medications in young children. This issue is discussed in the common cold section of this handbook. Prescription cough medications for specific illnesses should be used only as directed by our physicians.

To help alleviate coughs, consider using a humidifier for a few days (note that prolonged use can promote mold growth in your home) or have your child take a long warm steamy shower. Honey-based cough remedies, such as Zarbee's, are safe for children over one year old. Zarbee's infant cough medicine may be given to younger infants, as it contains natural ingredients that may possibly soothe the cough slightly. However, both of these cough medications do little to actually relieve a child's cough.

Coughs which need to be evaluated further are those which:

1. Are accompanied by high fever.
2. Persist for more than seven to ten days.
3. Interfere significantly with sleep and daily activities.
4. Are accompanied by labored or difficult breathing, or a blue discoloration of the lips, gums or face (see section on asthma and RSV Bronchiolitis).
5. Are particularly severe with coughing fits that last several seconds.
6. Occur in infants three months or less.
7. Are associated with vomiting.

Any of the above symptoms should prompt an office visit during regular office hours except coughs which are accompanied by labored breathing (breathing difficulty) which should prompt immediate medical attention.