Dr. Lori Handy explains that coughs can be caused by irritations due to infections with a virus of bacteria. They can also be caused by something non-infectious, like asthma, reflux, or a foreign body in the airway.

Dr. Handy recommends ways to keep your child comfortable that can be used at home and describes when to seek medical attention.

For more information about the “Healthy at Home with Dr. Handy” series, or other Parents PACK programs, please visit our website, http://vaccine.chop.edu/parents.

00:00 Introduction
00:17 What’s a cough and what causes it?
01:20 When to call your child’s doctor
01:50 Managing symptoms at home

Video created by and for the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (VEC at CHOP) is composed of scientists, physicians, mothers, and fathers devoted to the study and prevention of infectious diseases. The Center was launched in October 2000 to provide accurate, comprehensive and up-to-date information about vaccines and the diseases they prevent.

If you have any questions about your child’s health, please contact your child’s doctor. This video is intended only to provide general education and not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship between you and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). It is not medical advice or treatment, and CHOP is not responsible for any outcomes you or your child might experience from your use of this video. This video is provided “AS IS” with no warranties or representations. This video is copyright of CHOP. All rights reserved. ©2023 The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.