Question
My child, over one year old, has been frequently coughing, having difficulty breathing, and sometimes feverish. After a doctor’s examination, the diagnosis was whooping cough, but the medication seems to have little effect. Parents are inquiring about other methods to alleviate the child’s symptoms.
Answer
Firstly, whooping cough typically causes symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and increased phlegm production. For a one-year-old infant, these symptoms may make them uncomfortable, leading to constant crying and restlessness. It is recommended to administer symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication and expectorants, and ensure the child drinks plenty of water to keep the respiratory passages moist. Additionally, keeping the indoor air circulating and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and other irritating gases can also help alleviate symptoms. If the symptoms do not improve or if there are signs of rapid breathing or fever over 38.5 degrees Celsius, it is advisable to take the child back to the hospital for a follow-up examination.