What are some ways to control a cough for a child with asthma?

Medication: Cough is a common symptom of asthma. If it is from an acute attack, albuterol should suffice. In exercise-induced asthma, it is very effective if use 10-15 minutes prior to exercise. However, if the cough occurs daily, regular therapy with a controller medications such as montelukast (singulair) or an inhaled steroid (flovent, qvar, asmanex, pulmicort) may help.

Bronchodilators: If it is an acute exacerbation: bronchodilators (albuterol, levalbuterol) by inhalation are needed, given every 4 hours at home (can be given more frequently, but hospital is recommended if needed more often). Also, oral steroids acutely help with cough in asthma. If cough is a chronic symptom: asthma is poorly controlled and your plan needs to be re-evaluated by your physician for better control.

Treat asthma: Coughing is usually a symptom of uncontrolled asthma with airway muscle spasm, increased mucous production, & narrowed breathing tubes. Bronchodilators like albuterol provide immediate but temporary relief. Anti-inflammatory meds like inhaled steroids & montelukast control underlying inflammation, the ultimate cause of cough. Pneumonia, sinusitis, & gerd may cause cough & require treatment.

Asthma action plan: A virtual consultation on Healthtap may be helpful to you and your pediatrician. Poorly controlled asthma may be managed with a number of treatment options. If the cough is associated with vomiting, distress or fever, please see urgent care or your pediatrician right away.