Coughing accompanies almost every cold and is a sensible protective reflex that helps the body keep the airways clear. In children, it often sounds more severe than it actually is. It usually improves gradually, but can last two to three weeks, and occasionally up to four weeks. What matters most is your child's breathing and general condition. If breathing becomes difficult or symptoms persist, medical advice is important.
Possible causes
Cold infections
Viral infections of the upper respiratory tract are the most common cause of cough. It often accompanies a runny nose and mild fever and gradually resolves.
Congested bronchial tubes
With a deeper infection, the cough sits in the bronchial tubes and sounds looser or more rattling. Adequate fluid intake helps loosen the mucus.
Irritated airways
Dry heating air, smoke, or irritants can irritate the airways and trigger coughing. Even after an infection, the irritating cough often persists for a while.
Pseudocroup and Whooping Cough
A barking cough with wheezing/stridulous inhalation that begins suddenly in the evening or at night suggests pseudocroup; coughing fits occurring in bouts, up to the point of vomiting, over the course of weeks suggest whooping cough. Both should be assessed by a doctor — immediately in case of breathing difficulty.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1The pediatrician asks how the cough sounds, when it occurs, and whether fever, shortness of breath, or poor feeding are also present, and listens to the lungs.
- 2In case of laboured breathing, she measures the oxygen saturation; an X-ray or a swab is only necessary for specific questions.
- 3In most cases, fluids, fresh air and patience are enough; for pseudocroup, asthma or pneumonia, targeted treatment is given.
What you can do yourself
- Offer warm or cool drinks regularly, this soothes the throat and helps loosen mucus. For children aged one year and over, a spoonful of honey can relieve the urge to cough — honey is not allowed under one year of age.
- Ensure sufficiently humid, fresh room air, for example by ventilating regularly.
- For infants, this also applies when coughing: always place the infant on their back to sleep, on a firm, flat, and non-inclined surface — no pillows, wedges, or elevated positioning. For older children, a safe, comfortable sleeping position without any special elevation is sufficient.
- Keep your child away from cigarette smoke and other irritants and allow them plenty of rest.
Difficult breathing, audible wheezing at rest, chest indrawing, or a sudden barking cough with wheezing inspiration (pseudocroup) require immediate emergency care (144). Have your child examined the same day if the cough is very persistent or if the general condition is significantly affected. In infants and young children, you should consult the pediatrician's practice early on if there is coughing along with breathing problems or difficulty drinking.
Frequently asked questions
- How long may a cough last?
- A cough following an infection can easily last two to three weeks and gradually subside. If it worsens again or new symptoms appear, a medical check-up is advisable.
- Does my child need cough syrup?
- Many cough syrups provide little benefit for children and are not suitable for every age. Adequate fluid intake, humid air, and rest are often more helpful; if in doubt, consult your pediatrician's office.
- Why does my child cough mainly at night?
- When lying down, more mucus runs into the throat, and dry night air causes additional irritation. In infants, however, the sleeping surface must not be raised or inclined for this purpose — what matters is unobstructed breathing, adequate fluid intake, and a safe sleeping place. Well-humidified air can also help make the night calmer.
Not sure whether you should go or whom to see? Describe your symptoms — we'll find the right practice in your area.