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A cough may have many causes. A cough
may be due to a simple cold and runny nose; or may be a sign of a more
serious illness, such as asthma, croup, or pneumonia. Most coughs are
minor, and may take up to 2-3 weeks to go away.
MYTHS
Coughing up mucus does not always mean a
serious problem. The mucus may be coming from the nasal passages.
Fever with a cough does not
always indicate a serious infection. Fever may be present with a cold
that is causing the cough. However, if fever is present for more than
three days, and the cough is worsening, call our office.
A longer lasting cough does not always
mean a more serious illness. A cough due to a cold may last 2-3 weeks.
TREATMENT
A cough suppressant may be helpful for
severe coughs that interfere with sleep, school or work. Call our office
for advice before using them.
Warm fluids may be of benefit for
coughing spasms. A cool mist humidifier may be helpful at night to
loosen secretions.
Avoid exposure to smoking.
Second-hand smoke will only worsen a cough by irritating the airways,
and most likely, prolong nasal congestion if present.
WEB LINK
Learn
more about caring for your child's cough.
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