Health Tip: Dealing With a Child's Cough

Parents may become fearful at the first signs of a child's cough. But experts say a cough is the body's way of protecting itself against respiratory damage.

The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology offers this advice about coughs that develop in children: 1. A lingering daytime cough that follows a viral respiratory infection probably doesn't need treatment, and should subside in a week or two. 2. See the pediatrician if your child's cough lasts longer than you think it should. 3. Also see the pediatrician if your child can't engage in daily activities because of the cough, or if your child is coughing up blood. 4. Many cough medicines are not effective in children. 5. Schedule a consultation with an allergist or immunologist if you think your child's cough may be triggered by allergies or asthma.