Coughing is a common, natural way to clear the throat and chest. It is also a common sign in childhood illnesses. Coughing is exhibited in a number of ways and equally has a number of reasons. Usually it accompanies a virus such as the common cold but sometimes it can mean something more serious. A raspy cough is indicative of croup, a viral infection usually affecting children under 6 years of age.
Types
There are many types of coughs, including dry, nonproductive coughs or productive, wet-sounding coughs. Coughing is important and not all coughs are serious, as some may be mild and annoying. Dry, hacking coughs are typical of asthma, bronchitis, upper respiratory infection or as a result of irritants in the air, such as smoke. A whooping sound made as your child inhales after a bout of coughing is called whooping cough. Pneumonia has a productive cough but also exhibits difficulty in breathing.
Croup
A raspy cough is an unpleasant, harsh cough. While many coughs can seem unpleasant and harsh, croup is characterized by a barking, raspy sound. According to the KidsHealth website, croup is usually caused by a virus. The cough may begin in the middle of the night and be a result of swelling in the upper airway or a swelling of the larynx and trachea. Due to the swelling of the larynx, your child's voice may be hoarse.
Stridor
Because croup swells the airways, it can lead to a raspy breathing, even without coughing, according to the Pediatric Planet website. This harsh, gasping sound when your child breathes in is called stridor. It is serious, as it affects your child's breathing. Stridor can become worse if your child is agitated or has been crying.
Treatment
Always contact your child's pediatrician first. Croup typically goes away on its own but there are ways to help alleviate the cough and make breathing better. Sitting with your child in a steamy bathroom for 20 minutes can help with a croupy cough. Keeping your child calm also helps to ease the cough, as agitation constricts the airways more. Humidifiers that emit either a warm or cool mist can help to open passageways to make for easier breathing as well.
Considerations
Consult your child's pediatrician if you are concerned about your child's cough or if your child has a persistent cough. Call the doctor immediately if your child has difficulty breathing, chest pains or is coughing up blood. Croup can change quickly, so listen for a change in the cough. Before administering any medication, contact the pediatrician, as some medicines are not safe for children.
