4 yr old...is it Allergies or Asthma

In January both myself and my 4 yr old son developed a cough along with a headcold and we can't seem to get rid of it. Both of us have taked antibiotics, and the symptoms have gotten better. The cough for both of us is periodic, but my son has started having what I would call coughing fits when he is running or playing hard. He gets red faced when he coughs and it stops with drinking water and rest. At night when he lays down he coughs as well but not as long.

There is no history of asthma on either side of our family, allergies yes.
I have taken him to the pediatrician and he does not have chest congestion so we started zyrtec, but it doesnt seem to help.

I have taken him to the pediatrician and he does not have chest congestion so we started
Any ideas???

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Your son seems to be having chronic cough. Some common causes of chronic cough include asthma, allergic rhinitis, sinus problems (for example sinus infection),post nasal drip and esophageal reflux of stomach contents. In rare occasions, chronic cough may be the result of aspiration of foreign objects into the lungs. Infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia can cause coughing. These infections can be caused by virus, bacteria or fungus.

Pls consult a pediatrician and get x-rays chest and sinuses and CT chest done to confirm a diagnosis.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.