Coughing is a natural reflex in the airways and
is the way the body protects itself from phlegm and mucous,
which may drip down the back of the throat, or pieces of food,
which may have become stuck in a baby’s airways. A cough is one
of the most common symptoms of illness in a baby or child and
although it may be distressing to witness, it is not usually a
sign of anything serious.
Persistent cough, however, is defined as a daily
cough lasting for more than three to four weeks. Babies younger
than three months don’t cough that much, so a persistent cough
is usually an indication that there might be something wrong.
Why does my baby have a persistent cough?
Your baby may have a food allergy, e.g. Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy
(CMPA). Other possible reasons for
persistent cough include a viral illness, such as a cold or flu,
croup, passive smoking, reflux, or a respiratory condition, such
as asthma or bronchitis.
Could it be Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy?
Persistent cough is a common symptom for babies with CMPA. Almost
30% of babies with CMPA will have cough as a symptom. Babies
with CMPA usually experience more than just one symptom and
these symptoms can be very different from one another.
If you think that your baby has a persistent
cough, it could be CMPA. You may have even noticed
other symptoms (besides persistent coughing), which may affect
other parts of your baby’s body.
For a simple and easy way to check common symptoms associated
with CMPA, you can use our symptom checker.
In any case, if you have any doubts or concerns about
your baby’s health, you should always seek advice from a
medical professional as soon as possible.