Is your kid coughing ?When to see pulmonologist?

Is your kid coughing ?
When to see pulmonologist?

Coughing is actually one of the most common reasons for pediatric visits. While it sounds scary, it’s usually just your child’s protective reflex -clearing out the "gunk" to protect the lungs.
Let’s understand why it happens and when you should actually worry.

Common Reasons for the Cough Most coughs in kids are caused by viral infections. Kids can get 6 to 10 colds a year!
1.The Common Cold: Usually a "wet" or "dry cough with runny nose. This cough is almost always viral, meaning antibiotics won’t help.Don’t give antibiotics to kids without doctors advice.

⁠ 2.Croup: If your child sounds like a barking seal, it’s likely Croup. It’s caused by swelling in the upper airway and often sounds worse at night.
3.Post-Nasal Drip: That "tickly" cough that only happens when they lie down? That’s usually mucus from the nose dripping down the throat.
4.Asthma: If the cough is accompanied by a wheezing or happens mostly after running around, it might be exercise-induced or allergic asthma.

🚩 Red Flags: When to see pulmonologist ASAP
Keep these "Red Flags" signs in mind:
1.Persistent cough > 2 weeks
2.Reduced appetite
3.Wheezing
4. Stridor
5. ⁠Chest retractions
6. ⁠Weight loss
7. ⁠Persistent fever

Dr. Pravin Taware
Pediatric pulmonologist
Aeris clinic of allergy chest & sleep care,
Matunga East , Mumbai
Gleneagles Hospital, Parel , Mumbai