According to KidsHealth, coughing is the most prevalent cold symptom among children. As terrible as it sounds, coughing is a good sign as it means your toddler is keeping his airway and chest clear. Call your child's doctor if your child experiences additional symptoms, such as a fever, in addition to a persistent cough.
Croup
If your child's cough sounds like a dog's bark, then it is most likely a croup cough. A croup cough may be caused by a virus as well as allergies. Due to their smaller airways, children under the age of 3 years are more susceptible to this illness. Other symptoms that may be associated with croup cough include coarse, noisy breathing and an increase in coughing at night.
Whooping Cough
Children who suffer from whooping cough tend to have coughing fits that last for 20 to 30 seconds. Afterwards, your child may have a hard time catching his breath, which may result in a "whooping" sound. Whooping cough can affect children at any age, especially children who did not get the DTaP vaccine within the first couple months after birth. Whooping cough may start off with cold-like symptoms, including sneezing, a mild cough and a runny nose.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is classified as a lung infection that is caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. Children who suffer from bacterial pneumonia may experience sudden symptoms including a high fever, coughing and appearing to be weak and ill. Viral pneumonia is a less severe infection that may start off with cold-like symptoms that gradually get worse over time. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing and high fever. If you suspect your child has pneumonia, call her doctor immediately.
Allergies
If your child has a stuffy or a runny nose with clear mucus and a cough, he may have allergies. Just like adults, children can be allergic to dust, dirt, pet dander, mold and pollen. Environmental pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, may also cause your child to cough persistently. To get rid of dust and dander, clean your house regularly. Wash bedding in hot water once a week. Use a dehumidifier in your child's room during warm, humid months. If your child still experiences symptoms, see your child's doctor.
Home Remedies
Most coughs can be cured with remedies found around the home. Run hot water into a bathtub for a few minutes with the door closed. Once the bathroom is full of steam, bring your child into the bathroom and sit with him for 15 minutes or so while he breathes in the steam. Soothe your child's achy throat and chest with a cool beverage, like water or apple juice. Give children over the age of 1 a 1/2 teaspoon of honey. Avoid giving your child any over-the-counter cough or cold medication until you speak with her doctor first.
