Question
A 3.5-year-old child has been experiencing coughing and vomiting while sleeping, a situation that is quite serious and is often accompanied by fever, coughing, and vomiting. The child has a low weight and a slender build. They have already taken four boxes of ‘Sanjing Gluconate Zinc Oral Solution,’ but there has been no improvement. Should the medication be continued? Moreover, the child often has constipation issues (every 2-3 days). Previous treatment and effects: The child has also taken ‘Children’s Cough Syrup’ and ‘Children’s Compound Sulfamethoxazole Granules.’ Currently, the child occasionally coughs during the day, but as soon as they sleep, the coughing becomes severe and is accompanied by vomiting. Seeking help: The child’s nasal congestion may be due to air conditioning. Is the cough a cold or hot cough? Is ‘Carbocysteine Oral Solution’ suitable for cold or hot cough? What can be done to prevent coughing and vomiting during sleep?
Answer
When a child lies down, mucus can reflux and stimulate the throat, causing coughing. It is recommended to elevate the child’s head while sleeping to avoid severe coughing and its occurrence. At the same time, it is suggested that the child not eat too much at night, as overeating may also trigger coughing. Some digestive aids and foods, such as carrot soup, can be taken in moderation. If it is due to a common cold-induced upper respiratory infection, which is usually caused by a viral infection, it is recommended to give the child more plain water to drink, which should improve the situation.