Coughing is one of the most common reasons a child is brought to a doctor, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. There are many possible causes of a cough in children. The most common reasons are viral respiratory tract infections, gastroesophageal reflux disease, called GERD, asthma and postnasal drip. Other causes include cystic fibrosis, sunusitis, whooping cough and tuberculosis, notes American Family Physician. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the coughing.
Whooping Cough
Even though children are routinely vaccinated against whooping cough, called pertussis, outbreaks of this potentially dangerous and highly contagious disease still occur, explains information published on the Mayo Clinic website. Prior to development of a protective vaccination, whooping cough was a significant cause of death in children. Whooping cough is characterized by an especially severe hacking cough followed by an intake of air that causes a "whooping" sound. The cough is severe enough to break ribs. Infants are most at risk for serious complications, such as breathing failure, brain damage and death. Treatment includes antibiotics and medicines that relieve the cough.
Asthma
Childhood asthma has become more common and is one of the top causes of coughing in children. Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways that causes increased sensitivity, constriction from swelling and increased production of mucus, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Asthma can be triggered by smoke, pollution, pets, pollen, mold, cold weather, viral infections and exercise. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, chest congestion and tightness, delayed recovery after a respiratory infection, trouble sleeping due to coughing and difficulty breathing. Treatment includes inhalers containing medications that reduces swelling or that quickly open the airway and control of allergies. Asthma attacks can cause severe respiratory distress requiring emergency medical treatment.
GERD
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a common cause of coughing in children. Irritability, gagging, frequent regurgitation, arhing of the back and resisting feedings can indicate GERD. Signs of severe GERD in children include chronic cough, vomiting, wheezing, gasping while asleep, sleep apnea, failure to grow normally and frequent infections. Treatments include changes in diet, weight loss for obese children and medications that control stomach acid. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, infants should be kept in an upright position during and after feeding. It is vitally important to discus an infant's sleeping position with a doctor to prevent risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS.
Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip is one of the most common causes of chronic coughing in children, according to Merck Manuals. Postnasal drip occurs when mucus builds up in the back of the throat from thick or excessive secretions. In addition to coughing, symptoms may include a sore throat, headache and itchy eyes. Treatments can include corticosteroid nasal sprays, antibiotics, antihistamines and avoidance of allergy-causing substances.
