What Is the Difference Between a Dry and Wet Cough in Kids?

Coughs come in many forms, but they generally fall into two categories: wet and dry. Both types have different symptoms, causes, and treatment options, so it's important to recognize the distinguishing factors if your child is struggling with feeling sick. Here's everything you need to know about dry coughs and wet coughs in kids.

What Is a Wet Cough in Kids?

Wet coughs, also known as productive coughs, are ones that bring up phlegm or mucus. This liquid can be a range of colors, from clear to white to yellow to green, and comes from the respiratory tract. Wet coughs may be caused by viral or bacterial infections like influenza, the common cold, and pneumonia.1 Allergies can also cause mucous production along with a productive cough that sounds "wet."

Other symptoms—such as runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue—commonly accompany a child or toddler wet cough. Your kid may also experience postnasal drip, which feels like mucus running down the throat or chest.

What Is a Dry Cough in Kids?

On the other hand, dry coughs, also called unproductive coughs, don't produce any mucus or phlegm, explains Hector de Leon, MD, pediatrician for Kaiser Permanente in Colorado. Tell-tale characteristics of a dry cough include a tickle in the throat and hacking sounds.