Question
A one-and-a-half-year-old baby often has cough and phlegm in the throat after catching a cold, accompanied by a hoarse sound. The condition doesn’t improve even after taking medication. Is hospitalization necessary?
Answer
The baby’s cough and phlegm in the throat, along with a hoarse sound after catching a cold, may be caused by acute laryngitis. Acute laryngitis can lead to laryngeal edema, posing certain risks, and thus requires hospitalization. To reduce the recurrence of the disease, it is necessary to enhance the baby’s immune system. Secondly, timely vaccination is important. Additionally, a balanced diet should be maintained to avoid faddy eating habits. Consume more foods rich in high-quality protein, various vitamins, and trace elements, such as lean meat, fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Moreover, traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture and moxibustion techniques can be used to boost the baby’s appetite and immunity. Lastly, digestive zinc preparations help to enhance the baby’s absorption function and immunity.