What should you know about harsh barking cough?

A barking quality can occur when the voice box or nearby airway is inflamed. A Common Cold may trigger this irritation, while Acid Reflux or Allergic Rhinitis can keep the throat sensitive. Acute Bronchitis can produce a forceful cough as the larger airways recover. Asthma, Bronchiolitis and other airway conditions can also alter breathing sounds, especially in children or people with existing lung disease. The sound alone cannot identify the cause; age, duration, fever and breathing effort add important clues.

Rest, sip fluids and avoid smoke, incense, strong fragrances and dusty air. Warm drinks may soothe an irritated throat. Keep track of when the cough began, whether it is worse at night, and whether there is wheezing, fever or phlegm. Do not use someone else’s inhaler or antibiotics. A clinician can decide whether the pattern fits a Common Cold, Chronic Cough or another condition and whether an examination or treatment is needed.

Seek emergency help for struggling to breathe, blue or grey lips, severe drowsiness, inability to speak normally, choking, or a high-pitched noisy breath at rest. Arrange prompt medical advice for a child with worsening noisy breathing, poor drinking, repeated vomiting, or marked chest pulling. Book a review if the cough persists, keeps returning, or is accompanied by blood, weight loss or night sweats.

Could the cough be coming from the upper airway, reflux or the lungs? What signs should I monitor overnight? Do I need an inhaler, testing or a follow-up appointment? Which cough medicines are suitable for my age and other medicines?