Coughs in Children

A persistent cough can be tough, especially if it’s keeping them – and you – awake at night. So it’s good to know a few ways to calm a cough and help everyone drift off to sweet dreams.

How do I know if my little one has a cough?

• Very simple – you’ll hear it!

While your child’s cough is often distressing to listen to it is actually doing a job. A cough is a reflex action that helps clear away phlegm or mucus.

How can I help them feel better?

If your child is over 1 year old, give them a warm drink of diluted lemon juice and honey. The honey coats their throat, which helps reduce the irritation.

Handy tip

Cuddles can go a long way to make your child feel better.

Some more simple tips

• Make sure your little one gets lots of rest and drinks plenty of fluids

• A warm drink at bedtime can soothe them to sleep.

How long will it last?

• Most coughs clear up within three weeks.

• You might find that a dry cough comes alongside a cold.

When to call the doctor

Coughs are normally nothing to worry about, but they can be really distressing and uncomfortable – especially if your baby is too little to understand what’s going on.

You should go and see your GP if:

• your little one has a bad cough that won’t go away

• the cough turns wheezy

• your child also has a high temperature

• your little one isn’t eating or drinking normally

• and if, at any time, your child seems to be having difficulty breathing, contact your GP immediately.

• The information on this page is not exhaustive. You know your child best, if you have any concerns about your child, you should contact your GP.