Suggest Treatment For Persistent Cold And Wheezing In A Child

Posted on Mon, 8 Feb 2016

Question: My daughter has had a cold for over a month and a half now. It's still loose in her chest and towards the top. When listening to her lungs w a stethoscope it sounds like wheezing with times of mucus stuck in her lungs. She just turned 2 yesterday so I worry about her being placed on any type of steroid as treatment but am wondering if maybe I should take her in to a clinic to get an antibiotic like a z pack. What is ur suggestions and professional opinion of what could possibly be wrong w her and what we should do? I have thought about taking her to the hospital I work at and suction her out sometimes to get the mucus out.
Sincerly,
xxxxxxxxxxx

Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Start with bronchodilator and steroid nebulisation

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I understand your concerns but don't worry. Your daughter seems to be suffering from an allergic bronchitis episode. I would recommend you to start her on inhaled bronchodilator (Albuterol or Levosalbutamol) along with steroid (Budesonide). Inhaled medications are more useful and have minimal side effects as compared to oral medications. You may give them with nebulizer or Metered dose inhalers. Start with twice daily inhalations. Also, start a leukotriene receptor antagonist such as montelukast (4mg once daily 8 pm). Ensure regular feeds and plenty of fluids.

You may visit a pediatrician for review if she doesn't improve in next 3 days or the symptoms worsen.

Hopefully it will be of help.

Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Archana Verma (15 minutes later)

I'm a little confused. do you think a steroid is absolutely necessary for a 2 year old? I know I suffer from asthma and bad as a child not so much now but the steroids I was on as a child gave me a cataract that's why I worry. Also, do you feel it appropriate for me to show her doctor your recommendations and ask for that treatment or I can even take her to a dr at my work and request it. I just want to make sure you are okay with me giving them your opinion on the situation. I liked how u knew right how to handle everything and I have been worried it is bronchitis for a while now. is bronchitis contagious? Thank you for your help.

sincerely,

xxxxxxxxxxx

Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You may consult a pediatrician at your work place

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

Steroids are definitely not the drugs to be misused. The drugs and dosages I suggested are appropriate for your daughter's condition and will be helpful if given for a few days during this episode. You may definitely discuss this and take an opinion from pediatrician at your work place.

Allergic conditions are not contagious. But a positive family history does predispose your child to allergies. Don't worry. She is going to be fine.

Take care

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad