Coughing is a reflex action to try and rid the throat of any irritant or blockages. This can be due to mucus build-up after an infection, exposure to cigarette smoke or due to an allergy, for instance to pollen. Coughs can be a sign of a more severe problem such as croup, bronchitis or pneumonia.
What you can do
Coughs shouldn’t be suppressed, unless you have been advised otherwise, as they help to clear phlegm from the airways. Propping your child up at night may make breathing easier. Gentle patting on the back during a coughing attack may help to loosen phlegm. A hot drink of water, lemon and honey can help to soothe a throat that has become sore after coughing. Avoid smoking in any of the rooms that your child uses.
Treatment
Naturopathy
A naturopath will aim to boost the immune system, which may have been weakened due to illness, by suggesting an increase in foods rich in vitamins A, C, E and zinc, such as fruit and vegetables. Onions, garlic and honey will help too. It may also help to cut back on foods that produce mucus, such as dairy products and sweets. Mineral salts, which help to support the system, may also be given, but the choice will depend on whether the cough is acute or chronic as well as seeing which other symptoms are present. A tepid pack put on the chest or alternating a hot and cold compress on the chest may help to loosen phlegm. Herbal remedies such as Comfrey, Wild Cherry Bark, Coltsfoot, Echinacea and Golden Seal may also be given.
Herbal medicine
Treatment will depend on the child. But a practitioner may recommend herbs such as Marsh Mallow, Hyssop and Eucalyptus. Garlic, known for its qualities in helping coughs, colds and chesty ailments, may also be given. It can be taken fresh in food, or in capsules or tincture. Aromatherapy Massage using aromatherapy oils can help to loosen phlegm. A therapist may advise an inhalation to help with the mucus, such as two drops each of Eucalyptus, Sandalwood and Bergamot, dropped into a bowl of near-boding water (hold firmly to prevent spillage, and protect the child’s chest with thick towels). Place a towel over the child’s head and encourage them to breathe deeply. Asthmatic children should avoid doing this. Alternatively, sprinkle a couple of drops of one of the oils on to their handkerchief to inhale.
Homoeopathy
If your child’s cough is short and dry, accompanied by a raised temperature, a homoeopath may recommend Aconite. For a watery or bubbly cough, Ars. alb. may be prescribed, or Rumex crispus for a tickly throat that leads to coughing. Biochemic tissue salts Ferr. phos. may be used for a dry cough and raised temperature, or if the cough is worse at night, Kali, sulph. There are combination packs specifically for coughs and colds, such as Combination J or Q.
