Children often experience coughing at different ages. Cough is usually a symptom associated with illness, which can range from mild and self-limiting to serious conditions requiring medical care. Parents should avoid giving cough medicines or suppressants without consulting a pediatrician.
Dr. Aida Abu Ashour, a pediatric specialist, explains the causes of cough in children, why coughing often worsens at night, and home remedies to relieve symptoms.
What is “Fake” or Playful Cough?
Some coughing in children is normal and not concerning. Known as “fake cough”, it usually appears after six months of age. Children may cough intentionally when seeking attention from a parent or loved one.
Key points:
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Fake cough does not include chest wheezing, rattling, or fever.
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Episodes are short and self-limiting.
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It reflects developmental and social awareness, as the child learns to communicate and interact.
What is Normal Cough in Infants?
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Occasional coughing over a period of up to 5 days
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Intermittent episodes (e.g., once every 4 hours)
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No continuous distress or impact on sleep
Home care tips:
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Offer warm drinks and mild herbal teas like anise or chamomile
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Keep the child warm and rested
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Avoid physical stress or overexertion
Signs of Concerning Cough
Consult a pediatrician if:
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Cough occurs every hour or disrupts sleep
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Infant refuses breastfeeding or formula due to coughing
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Infant is under 6 months old
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Cough persists beyond 5 consecutive days
How to Manage Non-Concerning Cough at Home
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Nasal care: Use saline drops, sprays, or a mucus aspirator to clear nasal passages
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Warm soups: Chicken soup can hydrate the throat, loosen mucus, and provide nutrition
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Herbal teas: Warm chamomile, anise, or caraway
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Steam therapy: Place the child near gentle steam (e.g., over a covered bowl of hot chamomile) to ease nighttime cough
Why Cough Increases at Night
Many infants experience gastroesophageal reflux (GER), which peaks around 4 months and often improves by 12–18 months.
Symptoms:
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Vomiting after feeding
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Discomfort and crying
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Nighttime cough due to acid or food reflux reaching the throat
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Increased risk of recurrent lung infections or wheezing
How to Treat Concerning Cough
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Steam therapy with medications prescribed by a doctor
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Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is diagnosed (dosage based on age and weight)
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Chest X-ray if ingestion of a foreign object or lung infection is suspected
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Allergy evaluation: If cough occurs monthly, nasal polyps or allergies may be involved; polyps are usually removed after age 3
Key Takeaways for Parents:
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Distinguish between playful/fake cough and serious cough
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Use home remedies for mild, non-concerning cough
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Seek medical care if symptoms are severe, persistent, or affect feeding and sleep
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Maintain a calm and attentive environment to support your child’s recovery
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