Cough in Babies: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Coughing is a common symptom in babies, and it can be worrisome for parents. A cough is the body's way of clearing the airways of irritants, such as mucus, dust, or smoke. In most cases, coughing in babies is not a cause for concern and will resolve on its own. However, it is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a more serious underlying condition.

There are several reasons why a baby might develop a cough. The most common cause is a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu. Other causes include allergies, asthma, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and whooping cough. In some cases, a cough may be a symptom of a more severe condition, such as cystic fibrosis or congenital heart disease.

It is important to note that a cough in babies can be more severe than in older children or adults. This is because babies have smaller airways, and their immune systems are still developing. As a result, a cough can quickly turn into a more severe respiratory infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor a baby's cough closely and seek medical attention if necessary.

Causes of Cough in Babies

Babies are prone to coughing due to their developing immune systems and exposure to various irritants and allergens. Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of mucus, dust, and other foreign particles. However, persistent or severe coughing can be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.

Viral Infections

The most common cause of cough in babies is viral infections. According to Mayo Clinic, more than 200 viruses can cause the common cold, which is an upper respiratory tract infection that affects the nose and throat. Rhinoviruses are the most common culprits, but other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and parainfluenza can also cause coughing in babies.

Babies can catch these viruses from other people who are infected, through contact with contaminated surfaces, or by inhaling droplets in the air. Symptoms of viral infections may include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fever, and sore throat.

Bacterial Infections

Although less common than viral infections, bacterial infections can also cause coughing in babies. According to Merck Manuals, bacterial infections such as pertussis (whooping cough) and pneumonia can cause persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory symptoms in babies.

Babies can contract bacterial infections from other people who are infected or from exposure to contaminated surfaces. Symptoms of bacterial infections may include coughing, fever, chills, chest pain, and fatigue.

Allergies

Allergies can also cause coughing in babies. According to HealthyChildren.org, cough-variant asthma is a type of asthma that can cause coughing without wheezing or shortness of breath. This condition is triggered by exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold.

In addition to coughing, babies with allergies may experience other symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.

Irritants

Irritants such as smoke, pollution, and strong odors can also cause coughing in babies. According to Seattle Children's Hospital, exposure to secondhand smoke is a common cause of coughing in babies and can increase the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Other irritants that can cause coughing in babies include cleaning products, perfumes, and air fresheners. It is important to keep the baby's environment clean and free of irritants to reduce the risk of coughing and other respiratory problems.

Symptoms of Cough in Babies

Wheezing

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when air flows through narrowed breathing tubes. It is common in babies with respiratory illnesses, such as bronchiolitis or asthma. Wheezing can be a sign of a serious respiratory infection or allergic reaction, and requires immediate medical attention.

Runny Nose

Runny nose is a common symptom of cough in babies. It is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold. A runny nose can lead to coughing as the baby tries to clear their airways. In some cases, a runny nose can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as pneumonia or sinusitis.

Fever

Fever is a common symptom of many illnesses, including cough in babies. A fever is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. In babies, a fever is defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. If a baby has a fever, it is important to monitor their temperature and seek medical attention if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including respiratory infections, asthma, and pneumonia. Signs of difficulty breathing in babies include rapid breathing, shallow breathing, wheezing, and retractions (pulling in of the chest or neck muscles).

Other symptoms that may accompany cough in babies include fatigue, irritability, and poor appetite. It is important to monitor your baby's symptoms and seek medical attention if they persist or worsen.

Diagnosis of Cough in Babies

Physical Examination

When a baby has a cough, the doctor will perform a physical examination to check for signs of infection or inflammation in the respiratory system. The doctor will listen to the baby's lungs with a stethoscope to check for wheezing, crackling, or other abnormal sounds. They may also check the baby's nose and throat for signs of congestion or infection.

Medical History

The doctor will ask about the baby's medical history, including any previous respiratory infections or allergies. They will also ask about the duration and severity of the cough, as well as any other symptoms the baby may be experiencing, such as fever, runny nose, or difficulty breathing.

Diagnostic Tests

If the cough is persistent or severe, the doctor may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. These may include:

• Chest X-ray: This can help identify any abnormalities in the lungs or airways.
• Blood tests: These can check for signs of infection or inflammation.
• Sputum culture: This involves collecting a sample of mucus coughed up from the lungs and testing it for bacteria or other pathogens.
• Allergy testing: This can help identify any allergens that may be triggering the cough.
• Pulmonary function tests: These can measure how well the lungs are functioning and identify any underlying respiratory conditions.

It is important to note that not all cases of cough in babies require diagnostic tests. In many cases, the cough will resolve on its own with time and supportive care. However, if the cough is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Treatment of Cough in Babies

Home Remedies

There are several home remedies that can help alleviate cough symptoms in babies. One of the most effective ways to ease a cough is to keep the baby hydrated. Fluids like breast milk, formula, water, and unsweetened juices can help moisten secretions and ease coughing. For babies over six months, warm clear fluids like apple juice and lemonade can be given in doses of 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) four times per day when coughing.

In addition to keeping the baby hydrated, saline nasal drops can be used to help clear mucus from the nose. Apply saline drops to each nostril and wait for a short period before using a suction bulb to draw mucus out of each nostril. Running a cool-water humidifier in the baby's room can also ease nasal congestion. Change the water daily and follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the unit.

Medications

It is important to note that cough medicines should not be given to young children. Instead, if the cough is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor. However, if the cough is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not be effective. Over-the-counter cough and cold medications should not be given to children under the age of 4, and it is important to always consult with a doctor before giving any medication to a baby.

Prevention

Preventing cough in babies can be challenging, but there are a few things parents can do to help reduce the risk of coughing. One of the most important things is to ensure that the baby is up to date on all recommended vaccines. This can help prevent illnesses that can cause coughing.

Another way to prevent coughing is to keep the baby away from people who are sick. It is also important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.