Question
Can a child speak during a spasmodic cough attack?
Answer
In the early stages of spasmodic cough, a child may emit a few cough sounds but usually has difficulty speaking. As the condition progresses, there may be barking coughs or breathing discomfort. In severe cases, there can be inspiratory respiratory difficulty, which requires immediate medical attention. It is advisable to avoid loud shouting and use steam inhalation therapy to alleviate symptoms, but one should be careful not to let the steam temperature become too high to avoid burns. Spasmodic cough is caused by stimulation of the pharynx and larynx, leading to intense contraction of neck and laryngeal muscles and closure of the glottis. The clinical manifestations in infants and young children are different from those in adults, and severe cases can present with tracheal retraction.