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

• Set up a humidifier in your child's room, or encourage her to take a steamy shower. The added moisture can ease chest discomfort that can lead to dry cough.
• Cough drops or throat lozenges contain throat-soothing ingredients like honey and menthol and honey. They're an effective dry cough treatment for children old enough to suck on them without swallowing.
• If your kid is older than 1, consider serving honey, which coats the throat to relieve cough-causing irritation.
• Similarly, your child can ease irritation by gargling salt water. A good ratio is one-half teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of water. Just make sure your child doesn't swallow it!
• Avoid physical activity, which could exacerbate a dry cough.

When to See a Health Care Provider About Your Child's Dry or Wet Cough

Most coughs don't indicate serious illness, and they often go away on their own. However, you should visit your child's doctor if they're under 4 months old, or if they have any of the following symptoms.

• A cough that lasts longer than 2-3 weeks, which could indicate GERD, asthma, or another chronic condition that needs treatment
• A cough that's getting progressively worse
• A cough that produces blood, green mucus, or foul-smelling phlegm
• High fever (or any fever in babies)
• Making "whooping" or wheezing sounds
• Irritability and extreme fatigue

If your child exhibits any of the following, call 911 immediately:

• Bluish or pale skin
• Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or shortness of breath
• Signs of dehydration
• A sucking or retracting motion in the stomach
• Choking or vomiting with coughing