Cough

We are currently seeing children and adolescents with cough, typically one of the most prominent and bothersome symptoms of viral respiratory infections at this time of year. Cough is often made worse with allergies and runny nose symptoms this time of year leading to postnasal drip and increased cough.  Coughing is an important and beneficial reflex that our bodies need to clear secretions and to keep open our major airways during the course of a viral cold or upper respiratory infection. However, severe or persistent cough, especially with fever, can be associated with asthma, pneumonia, sinus infections, and bronchiolitis, and should be evaluated by your health care provider.