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Updated: Aug 23, 2026
A Traditional Chinese Medicine Characteristic Therapy for Bronchial Asthma: Moxibustion
Published on: May 12, 2023
Insights
Persistent cough in children often stems from infections, not just asthma. Differentiating causes like foreign bodies, pertussis, and pneumonia is key. Asthma is usually accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Respiratory Medicine
- Clinical Diagnosis
Background:
- Cough is a frequent pediatric complaint in primary care.
- Parents often suspect asthma, even with common upper respiratory infections.
- Distinguishing asthma from other cough causes is crucial.
Observation:
- Key differential diagnoses for acute cough include foreign body aspiration, infections (pertussis, pneumonia), and asthma.
- Clinical history and physical examination are primary diagnostic tools.
- Special investigations may be necessary for accurate diagnosis.
Findings:
- Cough as the sole symptom of asthma is uncommon; wheezing and dyspnea are typical indicators.
- A personal or familial history of atopy supports an asthma diagnosis.
- Asthma-related findings on examination or spirometry may be absent between exacerbations.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of pediatric cough is essential for appropriate management.
- A trial of bronchodilators can aid in diagnosing suspected asthma.
- Early identification and treatment of underlying causes prevent complications.
Background:
A child presenting with cough is common in general practice. Usually the cough is due to an upper respiratory tract infection, however, parents are often concerned that the cough may be asthma.
Objective:
This article focusses on identifying various causes of persistent cough, especially asthma.
Discussion:
Significant causes of an acute cough need to be considered such as inhaled foreign bodies, aspiration, infections such as pertussis and pneumonia, and asthma. Clinical history, followed by physical examination and consideration of special investigations will guide the diagnosis. Cough as the sole symptom of asthma is unusual. There is usually associated wheeze and shortness of breath. A family or personal history of atopic symptoms lend weight to the possibility of asthma. In children with asthma, physical examination and even spirometry may be normal between episodes. In some cases where asthma is suspected, a trial of bronchodilation with formal assessment of response may be appropriate.
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