Williamsville Pediatric Center

A cough may have many sources. A cough may be due to a simple cold and runny nose, or it may be a sign of a more serious illness, such as asthma, croup or pneumonia.

• Coughing up mucous does not always mean there is pneumonia. The mucous may be coming from the nasal passages.

• If fever is present, that does not mean that there is a bacterial infection that may need an antibiotic. Fever may be present with a viral upper respiratory infection (a cold) which is also causing the coughing.

• The length of the cough does not always relate to the severity of illness. A cough due to a cold may last 2 to 3 weeks.

• If you have an older child, it would be helpful if he or she could cough up and spit out any mucous, rather than swallowing it. Swallowed secretions may cause an upset stomach.

• A cough suppressant may be of use for severe coughs that interfere with sleep, school, or work in a child older than 2yo.  

• A cool mist humidifier may be helpful at night.

• Avoid exposure to smoke at all costs. Second-hand smoke will only worsen a cough by irritating the airways, and most likely, prolong nasal congestion if present.

• We should see your child in our office if:
  
  
  • There are any signs of respiratory distress with the cough (difficulty breathing, pulling in under the ribs, rapid breathing)
     
  • Lips appear blue with or without a coughing spell
     
  • Fever of 101 degrees or higher is present for greater than 3 days
     
  • There is a history of asthma or wheezing in your child
     
  • Chest pains