What to do if your baby has recurring allergic coughs

What to do if your baby has recurring allergic coughs

What is an allergic cough?

An allergic cough is a cough that is caused by an allergy. Allergies are a reaction by your baby's immune system to a substance that is not harmful. When your baby inhales, ingests, or touches an allergen, their immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies attach to cells in the body called mast cells. When the allergen comes into contact with the mast cells, they release chemicals such as histamine, which causes the symptoms of an allergy.

What are the symptoms of an allergic cough?

The symptoms of an allergic cough can include:

A dry, hacking cough

A cough that is worse at night or in the early morning

A cough that is triggered by exposure to an allergen

Sneezing

A runny nose

Itchy, watery eyes

Skin rashes

What are the common allergens that cause allergic coughs in babies?

The most common allergens that cause allergic coughs in babies include:

Dust mites

Pet dander

Pollen

Mold

Food allergies

How is an allergic cough diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose an allergic cough by talking to you about your baby's symptoms and performing a physical examination. Your doctor may also order a skin prick test or blood test to confirm the diagnosis.

How is an allergic cough treated?

The treatment for an allergic cough will depend on the severity of your baby's symptoms and the allergen that is causing the cough. Treatment options may include:

Avoiding the allergen: The best way to treat an allergic cough is to avoid the allergen that is causing it. If your baby is allergic to dust mites, for example, you can reduce their exposure to dust mites by using a dust mite-proof mattress cover, washing bedding in hot water, and vacuuming frequently.

Medications: If your baby's symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe medications to relieve the cough. These medications may include antihistamines, decongestants, or cough suppressants.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps your baby's immune system to become less sensitive to the allergen. Immunotherapy is typically given as a series of injections.

What can I do to prevent my baby from developing an allergic cough?

There is no sure way to prevent your baby from developing an allergic cough, but there are some things you can do to reduce the risk, such as:

Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can help to protect your baby from developing allergies.

Avoiding allergens: If you know that your baby is allergic to a particular substance, avoid exposing them to it.

Using a humidifier: A humidifier can help to reduce the amount of dust and other allergens in the air.

Washing bedding in hot water: Washing bedding in hot water can help to kill dust mites.

Vacuuming frequently: Vacuuming frequently can help to remove dust and other allergens from your home.

When should I call the doctor?

You should call the doctor if your baby's cough is:

Severe

Persistent

Accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, wheezing, or difficulty breathing

Not improving with home treatment

The above is all the content that the editor wants to share with you. I sincerely hope that these contents can bring some help to your life and health, and I also wish that your life will be happier and happier.