Question
My child has a cough with phlegm, fever during the day with low temperatures, and at night, the temperature rises to 38.3 degrees Celsius. The child has been taking children’s cough syrup without improvement. Do we need to take antibiotics? Do we need to undergo any tests or examinations?
Answer
A cough with phlegm may indicate a respiratory tract infection. It is recommended to take the child to the hospital for a routine blood test and chest auscultation to confirm if it is a respiratory system infectious inflammation. Oral cooling and blood-cooling traditional Chinese medicine, such as Liquorice Compound and Ambroxol, can be taken. If diagnosed with a bacterial infection, oral Amoxicillin granules or other antibiotics can be taken, along with bronchodilator medications like Aminophylline. At the same time, ensure the child gets adequate rest, avoid smoking (including second-hand smoke), avoid spicy food, and maintain a light, high-calorie diet. Specific medication should be taken according to medical advice.