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Cough in Children

A cough is a reflex that helps clear mucus, irritation and other material from the airways. A cough can be dry, wet, mild, frequent, harsh or barking.

Colds and other viral respiratory infections are common causes of cough in children. Asthma, croup, allergies, pneumonia, sinus drainage, irritation and inhaled objects can also cause coughing.

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AAP Guide to Cough in Children

The AAP guide below explains common causes of cough, breathing signs to look for, and when your child needs care.

AAP Symptom CheckerCough

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child is wheezing, has noisy breathing or is breathing much faster than usual.
  • The cough is getting worse instead of gradually improving.
  • Your child has chest pain, coughs up blood or is not drinking enough.
  • The cough lasts longer than expected or you are worried about your child’s breathing.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child is struggling for each breath or can barely speak or cry.
  • Your child stops breathing, passes out or is very difficult to wake.
  • Your child’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on coughs and breathing

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