Question
I’ve been coughing with phlegm for the past few days, occasionally with a low-grade fever, but not a continuous cough. My child is too young to spit it out. What are some good methods to help loosen the phlegm? The doctor prescribed medication including Mo’er Qingfei Granules, Xiao’er Yanbian Granules, and Clindamycin Palmitate Granules. I’ve been taking these drugs for several days, but there seems to be no effect. Are there any other methods to help loosen the phlegm?
Answer
Coughing with phlegm in children indicates an upper respiratory infection, such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis. The treatment plan you’ve been following for your child’s oral medication is not appropriate because upper respiratory infections are often caused by Streptococcal infections. Therefore, it is recommended to start with antibiotics such as penicillin derivatives (such as Amoxicillin Granules) or cephalosporins. At the same time, you can give your child oral medications with a cooling blood effect, such as Chuanbei Xueli Syrup, to promote the expulsion of phlegm (you can also take your child to the hospital for nebulizer inhalation therapy). This will help reduce cough symptoms and inflammation repair. At the same time, pay attention to maintaining good indoor air circulation and humidity, and monitor your child’s body temperature.