With the advent of the cold and flu season, certain otolaryngologic problems become more prevalent in the pediatric population.
One example is chronic cough. Common causes include upper respiratory tract or pulmonary infection, often viral, as well as cough variant asthma, gastroesphageal reflux and psychogenic cough. A cough's duration, quality and timing with feeding, along with a physical exam, can help determine the etiology of the problem.
While treatment is often empirical and aimed at the most likely cause of the cough based on history, physical exam and age, Children's Hospital Boston's Department of
Otolaryngology is available to help should patients require more specialized care.
The Department of Otolaryngology has available appointments in Waltham,
(781) 216-2100, and Lexington, (781) 672-2100. For more information on services available, visit
www.childrenshospital.org/oto.
