Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
Then, from out of nowhere, your child’s peaceful sleep suddenly turns into loud, raucous coughs.
Your child may also need aCOVID-19 test.
In the meantime, here’s what to know about the most common conditions that cause coughs.
Croup can sound like a barking cough accompanied by a high-pitched squeak when inhaling.
Other symptoms include fever, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Your child may also have a fever, runny nose, vomiting and fatigue.
These symptoms can turn into more severe problems, such as difficulty breathing and a rapid heartbeat.
Though RSV and bronchiolitis tend to be more dangerous in infants, it can be serious in toddlers too.
In some cases (though not most), it can require hospitalization.
It usually comes on the heels of a viral or bacterial infection.
