1. Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
This is one of the most serious coughs a child can have. It starts like a normal cold but quickly turns into severe coughing fits that can make it hard to breathe. Whooping cough is very dangerous for babies under six months, and without treatment, it can be life-threatening.
What to Look For:
· Runny nose and mild fever
· Severe, nonstop coughing that can last for weeks
· Vomiting after a coughing fit
· Lips or nails turning blue during coughing
· Pauses in breathing, especially in babies
What to Do: If you think your child has whooping cough, see a doctor immediately. Antibiotics can help if started early, but they won’t stop the cough itself. At home, let your child rest and give them plenty of fluids, Vaccines are the best protection, so make sure your child’s shots are up to date!
2. Pneumonia Cough
If your child has had a cold that’s getting worse, and their cough sounds wet and sticky, it could be pneumonia. This happens when an infection fills the lungs with fluid.
What to Look For:
· Wet, gurgling cough
· Fast or hard breathing
· Fever, chills, and feeling very tired
What to Do: Take your child to a doctor. They might need antibiotics if it’s bacterial pneumonia, or just rest and fluids if it’s viral. Severe cases may need hospital care, so don’t wait if your child seems very sick.
3. Bronchitis Cough
This deep, chesty cough is caused by swollen airways, often from a virus.
What to Look For:
· Mucus-filled cough
· Sore chest when coughing
· Mild fever
What to Do: Bronchitis usually clears up on its own. Keep your child hydrated, let them rest, and avoid smoke or strong smells.
Wrap-Up Knowing what to watch for can help keep your child safe. If you’re unsure at all, ask your healthcare
provider, and if your child has trouble breathing, turns blue, or seems very weak, call for emergency help.
References
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40121-021-00442-6#
https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html https://www.parents.com/health/cough/cough/
https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1001332-overview?form=fpf
https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/bronchitis-in-kids
