Question
The 2-year-old baby has been continuously coughing, with a sore throat and hoarseness, but no runny nose. What could be the cause? Various medications have been taken, but the symptoms have not improved.
Answer
Generally speaking, if there is phlegm in the throat and a mild cough, it may be due to an upper respiratory infection or pharyngitis. Hoarseness could be caused by throat congestion, but laryngitis cannot be ruled out. It is recommended to take the child to a pediatrician for a detailed examination, including routine blood tests, C-reactive protein, and chest X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis.