Children's Health

Children may develop coughs from diseases or causes that usually do not affect adults, such as:

• Croup.
• Infection of the lower respiratory system (such as bronchiolitis or respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV).
• Blockage of the airway by an inhaled object, such as food, a piece of a balloon, or a small toy. For more information, see the topic Swallowed Objects.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke from parents or caregivers who smoke.
• Emotional or psychological problems. A dry, nonproductive "psychogenic cough" is seen more frequently in children than in adults.

Many coughs are caused by a viral illness. Antibiotics are not used to treat viral illnesses and do not alter the course of viral infections. Unnecessary use of an antibiotic exposes your child to the risks of an allergic reaction and antibiotic side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, and yeast infections. Antibiotics also may kill beneficial bacteria and encourage the development of dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

A careful evaluation of your child's health may help you identify other symptoms. Remember, a cough is only a symptom, not a disease, and often the importance of a cough can only be determined when other symptoms are evaluated. Coughs occur with bacterial and viral respiratory infections. If your child has other symptoms, such as a sore throat, sinus pressure, or ear pain, see the Related Topics section.

Use the Check Your Symptoms section to decide if and when your child should see a doctor.