Coughs in Children
A persistent cough can be tough, especially if it’s keeping them – and you – awake at night. So it’s good to know a few ways to calm a cough and help everyone drift off to sweet dreams.
How do I know if my little one has a cough?
- Very simple – you’ll hear it!
While your child’s cough is often distressing to listen to it is actually doing a job. A cough is a reflex action that helps clear away phlegm or mucus.
How can I help them feel better?
If your child is over 1 year old, give them a warm drink of diluted lemon juice and honey. The honey coats their throat, which helps reduce the irritation.
Handy tip
Cuddles can go a long way to make your child feel better.
Some more simple tips
- Make sure your little one gets lots of rest and drinks plenty of fluids
- A warm drink at bedtime can soothe them to sleep.
How long will it last?
- Most coughs clear up within three weeks.
- You might find that a dry cough comes alongside a cold.
When to call the doctor
Coughs are normally nothing to worry about, but they can be really distressing and uncomfortable – especially if your baby is too little to understand what’s going on.
You should go and see your GP if:
- your little one has a bad cough that won’t go away
- the cough turns wheezy
- your child also has a high temperature
- your little one isn’t eating or drinking normally
- and if, at any time, your child seems to be having difficulty breathing, contact your GP immediately.
- The information on this page is not exhaustive. You know your child best, if you have any concerns about your child, you should contact your GP.
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