Wet cough is a condition where you cough a lot releasing sputum and
phlegm as you cough. Wet cough is the body’s natural way of getting rid of pent up phlegm in the lungs and the respiratory system. Though wet cough is simply a natural cleansing mechanism of the body, it can be persistent and can cause
sore throats and can annoy you as well as people around you.
Infant wet cough is one of the most common conditions in young children. Though different from
whooping cough, persistent infant wet cough is almost as dangerous and could be an indication of a persisting infection in the upper respiratory system. Wet cough usually begins with dry cough and slowly elevates to the wet cough stage.
There are several reasons for the inset of
infant wet cough and infections in the upper respiratory system are the most common ones. If the onset of the infant wet cough has been acute, it could be due to common cold, infection of the upper respiratory tract,
bronchitis, pneumonia, chest infection, tuberculosis, a foreign body stuck in the lungs, emphysema, and pneumoconiosis. In severe cases, persistent infant wet cough could be due to lung abscess as well.
Wet cough in children should be a cause for concern and the child should be taken to a doctor immediately. The doctor may perform some tests and check the sputum to determine the cause of infant wet cough. If the cause of the
baby wet cough is common cold or a respiratory infection, you can treat the baby at home using some home remedies. Feed the baby lot of fluids and warm water. Soups and broths should replace formula and milk for a few days, till the phlegm and the congestion in the chest clears. A warm sponge bath will also help relieve the infant wet cough symptoms. Keep the baby warm at all times and make sure you give the baby medications that the doctor may have prescribed. If the baby has fever, consult with the doctor and check the dosage of fever medication to be given to the child.
Babies can also be given expectorant to help ease the buildup of mucus and increase its expulsion so that the baby feels better soon. Do not give your child cough represents as it will only make the condition worse. Also, stay clear of antihistamines, unless the doctor has specifically prescribed them. Avoid combinations of over the counter medicines for your child and consult with the doctor if you want to try anything new with the baby.
