Respiratory
Recurrent Cough and Wheeze in Children
Recurrent cough, wheeze and asthma assessment for children in Belfast and Northern Ireland. Dr Mugilan Anandarajan, Consultant Paediatrician, investigates causes, allergens and treatment options.
Recurrent Cough
Chronic cough is a common problem in childhood. A recurrent cough in children can have many causes, including viral infections, allergies, asthma, and environmental exposure.
Dr Mugilan Anandarajan provides a thorough clinical assessment to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate management plan tailored to your child.
Causes of Cough
Recurrent cough in children can have a wide range of causes, including:
- Recurrent viral cough and wheeze
- Post nasal drip
- Asthma
- Persistent bacterial bronchitis
- Bacterial infections
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal sinus disease
- Habitual cough
- Irritant cough
Common Allergens and Cough
Common airborne allergens that can trigger or worsen cough and wheeze in children include:
- House dust mite
- Grass pollen
- Tree pollen
- Mould
- Cat dander
- Dog dander
- Horse dander
- Common ragweed
Allergy Testing
We offer a wide range of testing to identify allergens contributing to your child's cough and wheeze, including:
- Blood testSpecific IgE testing to identify allergen sensitisation
- Skin prick testQuick and reliable testing for common environmental and food allergens
- Molecular diagnostic testDepending on allergen, if required for more detailed analysis
Treatment Options
Depending on the clinical diagnosis, treatment measures include:
- InhalersReliever and/or preventer inhalers with inhaler technique review
- AntibioticsWhere bacterial infection is identified as a contributing cause
- AntihistaminesFor allergic rhinitis and allergen-driven cough
- Nasal spraysTo manage post nasal drip and allergic rhinitis
- Other medicationsTailored to the underlying diagnosis
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
About recurrent cough and wheeze in children in children
Concerned about your child's cough or wheeze?
Dr Anandarajan offers same-week appointments with no GP referral required. Both Kingsbridge Private Hospital and Ulster Independent Clinic locations available.