When your baby develops a hacking cough, it may have several causes. Your infant may have a simple cold, or she may have a more serious illness such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or asthma. While the cough may not be anything to worry about, you should take your baby to the pediatrician to ensure she does not have a more serious condition that needs treatment.
Cold
If your child has a dry cough, he may have a cold. Colds do not require treatment other than regularly suctioning out his nose, keeping him hydrated and monitoring him for signs of fever. Never give an infant an over-the-counter cough medicine. If your child is less than 4 months of age, take him to the pediatrician as soon as possible because children 4 months old or younger do not normally cough or develop colds. If your child is older than 4 months of age, call your pediatrician and ask if he needs to be seen.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is an infection that often strikes in the winter. RSV is characterized by severe coughing, and it can be dangerous in children under the age of 1 year. RSV can lead to more serious infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia if it is left unchecked. Like a cold, you should treat a baby with RSV by regularly suctioning his nose, making sure he gets a lot of rest and keeping him hydrated.
Asthma or Allergies
A dry, persistent cough that lasts more than 2 weeks may be due to asthma or allergies. A cough that is due to asthma or allergies is sometimes marked by wheezing or excessive coughing around environmental triggers such as cigarette smoke or pets. Your child's pediatrician can conduct tests to determine the source of her allergies, if she has them. Asthma and allergies may occur separately, or they may occur together, but both conditions are treatable.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
Consult a physician immediately if your child's cough develops into a seal-like barking cough, which may indicate croup, or a violent cough that leaves him gasping for air, which is characteristic of pertussis. In addition, if your child passes out from coughing, is coughing up blood, has a fever over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, has blue lips or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help. For other coughs, including coughs in infants under 4 months old, or with lower fevers or mild chest pain, contact your physician for an appointment as soon as possible.
