Pediatr. praxi. 2012;13(1):8-11

Effective treatment of respiratory disorders associated with cough in children

doc.MUDr.Jiřina Chládková, Ph.D.

Dětská klinika LF UK a FN Hradec Králové

Cough in children has consistently been shown to be the commonest symptom for which parents consult physicians. Regarding duration

cough is characterised as acute (< 2 weeks), protracted (2–4 weeks) and chronic (> 4 weeks). Most children with acute cough are likely to

have a viral upper respiratory tract infection. The possibility of a more serious respiratory disorder should be always excluded. Children

with chronic cough must be carefully evaluated and have chest x-ray performed. Cough may cause significant anxiety to parents, and

use of inappropriate medications for cough is associated with a risk of adverse events. There are no effective medications for the symptomatic

relief of cough in children. The goal of management in acute cough as a symptom of a more serious respiratory disorder, and

in chronic cough is treatment of their underlying causes.

Keywords: cough, differential diagnosis, treatment, children

Published: March 1, 2012  Show citation