Question
My child has been suffering from persistent coughs that recur every minute or two, even during sleep. Sometimes the mucus is clear, and sometimes it’s yellow. Is this due to wind-cold or wind-heat? The cough improves but then recurs. What should I do?
Answer
Based on the described symptoms, traditional Chinese medicine believes it is caused by lung heat. It is suggested to take lung-clearing syrup and medications with heat-clearing and detoxifying properties. In terms of diet and lifestyle adjustments, avoid spicy and irritating foods such as chili, fish, shrimp, beef, lamb, seafood, scallions, garlic, ginger, chives, alcohol, milk, and fried foods. It is recommended to eat more cold vegetables and fruits like cabbage, spinach, celery, lettuce, carrots, winter melon, luffa, pumpkin, tomatoes, bananas, apples, pears, lotus seeds, pineapples, sugarcane, watermelons. In terms of the environment, avoid staying in high-temperature environments for long periods of time and reduce contact with computers and televisions. Mentally, maintain a cheerful mood and avoid anger and impatience. In terms of work, avoid overexertion as movement is yang in nature and may cause gastrointestinal discomfort for those who are prone to such issues.