Chronic Cough in Children: Upper Respiratory Tract Related Etiologies

The cough reflex is a very important defense mechanism that plays a vital role in the innate immunity of the respiratory system by increasing the clearance of mucus through the mucociliary system. Cough is a growing public health concern. A cough can significantly affect a child’s activity level and ability to sleep, play, or attend school, often causing distress to parents. Coughing in children is a common symptom mostly caused by respiratory tract infections; however, it can also be associated with various extrapulmonary factors. The main goal in the treatment of persistent cough in children is to determine the underlying cause. The aim of this section is to elucidate the etiology of chronic cough related to upper respiratory tract in children and to examine diagnostic and treatment approaches, prioritizing the use of clinical practice guidelines for cough and evidence-based best practices.