Recurrent Cough in Children: Allergy, Asthma, or Infection?

A Pediatrician Explains – Shivalik Hospital, Noida Sector 71

A cough that doesn’t seem to go away is one of the commonest reasons parents bring their child to OPD. Many parents are told repeatedly, “It’s just viral”, yet the cough keeps returning.

So the real question is:
Is it an allergy, asthma, or repeated infection?

What Is Considered “Recurrent Cough” in Children?

A cough is considered recurrent when:

• It lasts more than 2–3 weeks
• It comes back frequently over months
• The child has multiple episodes every year

This is not normal and should not be ignored.

1. Allergy-Related Cough (Very Common)

Typical Features

• Dry cough
• Worse at night or early morning
• Triggered by dust, cold air, weather change
• Often associated with runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes
• Child otherwise active and playful

2. Asthma-Related Cough (Frequently Missed)

Many parents believe asthma means only wheezing. That is not true.

Clues Suggesting Asthma

• Recurrent dry cough, especially at night
• Cough after running, playing, or laughing
• Cough triggered by cold air or pollution
• Family history of asthma or allergy
• Repeated “chest infections” with normal X-rays

In children, cough may be the only symptom of asthma. Early diagnosis and inhaled treatment can completely control symptoms and prevent long-term lung damage.

3. Infection-Related Cough

Viral Infections

• Most common cause
• Usually improves in 7–10 days
• Antibiotics are not required

Bacterial Infections (Less Common but Important)

• Cough with persistent fever
• Poor appetite, lethargy
• Fast breathing or chest retractions
• Cough not improving after 10–14 days

Conditions like pneumonia, sinusitis, or tuberculosis need proper evaluation and targeted treatment.

Why Some Children Keep Getting Infections

• Exposure in school/daycare
• Poor nutrition
• Undiagnosed asthma
• Enlarged adenoids
• Rarely, immune deficiency

Common Mistakes Parents Make

• Repeated self-medication
• Frequent antibiotic use
• Ignoring night cough
• Delaying specialist consultation
• Stopping inhalers too early out of fear

When Should You Consult a Pediatrician in Noida?

You should seek evaluation at Shivalik Hospital, Noida Sector 71 if:

• Cough lasts more than 2 weeks
• Cough keeps returning every few weeks
• Child coughs mainly at night
• There is wheezing or breathlessness
• Child is not gaining weight well
• Fever keeps recurring with cough

Evaluation may include:

• Detailed history and examination
• Chest X-ray (only if indicated)
• Allergy or asthma assessment
• Growth and nutrition review