Dear parents, nothing worries you more than hearing your child cough, but understanding the differences is your first step to dealing with it with confidence.
Part One: Telling the Common Respiratory Problems Apart
| Condition | Symptoms | Fever? |
|---|---|---|
| Common cold | Runny nose, sneezing, mild cough | Mild or none |
| Allergy | Watery runny nose, frequent sneezing, itching | None |
| Asthma | Dry cough (at night), wheezing, shortness of breath | No (except with a virus) |
| Bronchiolitis | Starts as a cold, then a continuous cough and rapid breathing | Often mild |
Part Two: Bronchiolitis (RSV)
It affects infants and children under two years. It causes swelling of the smallest airways.
Home care:
- Nose cleaning: Use saline spray and a suction device before every feed.
- Feeds: Small and frequent.
Part Three: Asthma (chest allergy)
Triggers: Smoking, dust, animals and cold air.
Treatment:
- Preventive (the most important): Inhalers taken daily to prevent attacks (safe).
- Reliever (Ventolin): To widen the airways during an attack only.
Part Four: Humidifiers and Steam
Cool mist: It may comfort the child, but there is no evidence that it speeds recovery from colds or croup.
Hot steam: Not recommended for children: there is no evidence of benefit, and it can cause serious burns.
When to go to the emergency room immediately?
- Severe difficulty breathing (movement of the ribs and belly).
- Bluish lips.
- Pauses in breathing for a few seconds.
- Severe lethargy or inability to feed.
This information is general awareness and is not a substitute for a medical examination. If your child has symptoms, consult the doctor.
Do you have a question about your child’s health?
Book an appointment at the Jeddah or Maadi clinic, or message us directly.
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