Children’s cough syrups: which one to choose

Children’s cough syrups are a more accessible and calming treatment alternative for children. This is because it is generally more difficult to alleviate respiratory symptoms in children with tablets, capsules and bitter liquids. ¹

However, you need to be careful when choosing the medicine. After all, it is essential to understand the characteristics of the framework to define which assets are safe and suitable. The fact is that many factors can affect this decision, from what’s making your child cough to other issues like weight and age. ^two

In this post, we will explain the main causes and characteristics of coughing in children. Only based on this information can we consider what is good for relieving the symptom and which syrups contribute to the treatment. ^{1 2}

Enjoy reading!

What is cough?

Coughing is a reflex of the human body, serving to clean and unblock the respiratory tract above the trachea. Basically, upon noticing a strange presence in the lining of the throat, no matter how small, the diaphragm muscles suddenly contract and force the air out of the lungs. This intense flow carries whatever is in the way out of the body. ^two

In general, respiratory infections and allergic reactions can leave the airways sensitized and vulnerable. This scenario can cause persistent coughing attacks, in addition to other symptoms that impact lung function and cause a lot of discomfort. ³

Coughing in children can be quite common. This is because children’s airways are narrower than those of adults. Consequently, obstructions and lodged particles are more frequent and more annoying. ^{2 3}

In addition, it is necessary to emphasize that children’s immune systems have not yet been completely developed. Therefore, little ones are more vulnerable and prone to developing respiratory problems. ^{2 3}

Possible causes of childhood cough

Among the most common causes of childhood cough, ^{2 3} stand out :

• common cold;
• the flu;
• rhinitis;
• sinusitis;
• bronchitis;
• bronchiolitis;
• asthma;
• reflux;
• pharyngitis;
• laryngitis;
• allergies;
• posterior rhinorrhea.

Respiratory infections are the most common, especially those caused by viruses and bacteria. This occurs because the little ones do not have antibodies and defense cells mature enough to fight these microorganisms. Except when they are properly vaccinated, which is essential for them to grow healthier and free from severe diseases. ³

Features of cough in children

In addition to the causes, it is important to pay attention to the characteristics of a child’s cough, as they are crucial in concluding the diagnosis and initiating appropriate treatment. To simplify understanding this point, we will divide them into two categories: types of cough and warning signs. ^two

Types of cough

The types of cough that deserve attention and care are the following ² :

• dry cough: the most common version, dry cough can occur in respiratory conditions, when swallowing small objects or choking on saliva, for example;
• productive cough (with phlegm): symptom of more significant respiratory infections, a sign that the immune system is fighting a relevant pathogen. Coughing up phlegm may not pose a risk, but it is certainly more uncomfortable.

Warning signs for children’s cough

Regarding warning signs, it is important to seek medical attention when ² :

• coughing produces thick, greenish-yellow phlegm , especially if there is blood;
• the child cannot breathe normally and/or has wheezing when breathing in;
• the lips or ends of the limbs turn bluish (cyanosis);
• there are uncontrollable coughing spells, with shrill noises and difficulty in normalizing respiratory flow;
• the child makes a lot of effort to breathe and appears tired and sick;
• Your child’s behavior becomes unusual, with crying, irritability, or prostration.

As a general rule, the younger the child, the more alert you need to be to these signs, especially if there is a fever or other respiratory symptom ongoing. ^two

What to do to relieve a cough?

To relieve a cough, it is important to identify and, if possible, treat the causes of the symptom. Simultaneously, supportive treatment uses expectorants, antitussives and antiallergics. ^{1 2 3}

In certain cases, flu medications can combine active ingredients and treat several problems at once. Finally, there are non-pharmacological measures, such as fluid replacement, rest and dietary care during acute phases. ^{1 2 3}

What is good for a child’s cough?

For a child’s cough, it is a good idea to see your pediatrician to carefully assess the condition. The remedies recommended for little ones are determined based on the weight and age of each child. Furthermore, it is worth adopting more moderate home methods to deal with whatever is causing your little ones’ discomfort. ^two

^{Among these measures, 2 3} stand out :

• give warm baths;
• encourage fluid replacement;
• offer natural teas, using ingredients such as honey, mint and chamomile;
• ensure that the child’s room is well ventilated and clean;
• use air humidifiers to minimize the impact of cold and dry weather;
• prioritize warm, nutritious and lighter foods, especially before bed;
• use nebulizers for inhalation;
• Make sure that the resting position leaves the child’s head slightly elevated, preventing coughing attacks and other symptoms.

How do cough syrups work?

Children’s cough syrups, whether natural (herbal), pharmacological or homemade, help combat reflex triggers, soothe irritation in the respiratory tract and/or help eliminate phlegm. ¹

The effectiveness and safety of these products depend on the ingredients and recommendations from professionals. For these reasons, we once again emphasize the role of the pediatrician in defining the ideal treatment for each situation. ¹

In general, as a child grows, it becomes easier to observe and interpret their respiratory symptoms. This way, you can distinguish when and which medications are useful for the symptomatic condition. ¹

What is the best cough syrup for children?

Despite being a pertinent and frequently asked question, there is no exact answer for all cases. As we always say here on the blog, the best medicine or, in this case, the best cough syrup for children is the one recommended by the doctor or healthcare professional.  ^{1 2}

To suggest the most assertive treatment, it is important to consider the characteristics of the symptoms and the probable cause for them. ^{1 2}

One tip is Benedesc Plus , a decongestant and anti-allergy liquid for pediatric use from the Benegrip line. Its formula combats several allergic symptoms at once, including nasal congestion, runny nose and other common complaints in cases of rhinitis and sinusitis. Recommended for children over two years old, it has fast action and relieves discomfort in 20 minutes. ⁵

How to develop children’s immunity?

In addition to this care, parents can help develop  their children’s immune system , increasing the quality of the body’s defenses against respiratory diseases. In this context, it is worth encouraging the practice of sports from an early age, the consumption of healthy foods and keeping your vaccination card up to date. ⁴

And if you need extra strength, Benegrip offers the Immuno KIds supplement, developed for children from four years old, with a combination of vitamins C, D, A and Zinc. Visit the official page and find out more! ⁴