Infectious coughs—whether caused by viruses or bacteria—typically last less than three weeks and are often accompanied by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, swollen glands, and a runny nose. During this period, you may experience frequent coughing fits throughout the day as your body works to clear the infection. These coughs are common during colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
Certain types of coughs can help identify the specific illness. A barking cough, especially in children, is often a sign of croup, a contagious infection that causes swelling of the larynx and trachea. This swelling leads to difficulty breathing and the characteristic harsh, barking sound. If the cough is paired with a loud “whooping” sound, it may indicate whooping cough (pertussis), a bacterial infection that is particularly common among children who are not fully vaccinated.
Another important cause is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which often leads to bronchiolitis in children under two. RSV usually causes a wet cough, wheezing, and chest congestion. While many cases are mild, some children require hospital care for breathing support. A whistling or wheezing sound suggests narrowed airways due to inflammation or mucus buildup.
Dr. Desai emphasizes that symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, or high fever may indicate pneumonia and require urgent medical attention. If the cough produces phlegm but no severe symptoms, bronchitis is the more likely diagnosis.
