Coughing and Eye Rubbing in Infants: Causes and Solutions

Q: Coughing and Eye Rubbing in Infants: Causes and Solutions

Hello Jackei： Your child may have a tendency towards allergies, so it is important to remove items in the environment that contain pet dander or other allergens. <br>Occasional coughing in children can sometimes occur due to the immaturity of the lower esophageal sphincter, which

Pediatric cough and eye rubbing?

The child is currently 6 months old and has recently experienced occasional coughing, which is followed by gagging.
Most of the time, there is no vomiting, but occasionally, he does expel some contents from his stomach.
There are no signs of a cold or general discomfort, and it has been one to two hours since the last meal.
I am unsure what the issue might be, and I would appreciate your guidance.
Additionally, he frequently rubs his eyes, and I wonder if this is related to some ingrown eyelashes on his lower eyelid or if there could be another cause.
Thank you!

jackie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/15

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics

Hello Jackei: Your child may have a tendency towards allergies, so it is important to remove items in the environment that contain pet dander or other allergens.
Occasional coughing in children can sometimes occur due to the immaturity of the lower esophageal sphincter, which may lead to a small amount of reflux.

Reply Date: 2000/11/15

More Info

Coughing and eye rubbing in infants can be concerning for parents, especially when they notice these symptoms occurring frequently. In your case, with your 6-month-old infant experiencing occasional coughing followed by gagging or vomiting, and also rubbing their eyes, there are several potential causes and solutions to consider.

Coughing and Gagging in Infants
1. Causes of Coughing:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER): Infants often experience reflux, where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. This can cause coughing or gagging, especially after feeding. If your infant is coughing and then gagging or vomiting, it may be related to reflux.
- Respiratory Issues: While you mentioned there are no signs of a cold or illness, it’s still possible for infants to have mild respiratory irritations that can cause coughing. This could be due to dry air, allergens, or even a mild respiratory infection that hasn't fully manifested.

- Foreign Body Aspiration: In some cases, infants may cough if they have inhaled a small object. This is less common but should be considered if the coughing is persistent or severe.

2. Solutions for Coughing:
- Positioning: Keeping your infant in an upright position during and after feeding can help reduce the likelihood of reflux.

- Feeding Techniques: Smaller, more frequent feedings may help minimize reflux symptoms. Ensure that your infant is burped adequately during and after feedings.

- Consult a Pediatrician: If the coughing persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend further tests or treatments based on the underlying cause.

Eye Rubbing in Infants
1. Causes of Eye Rubbing:
- Allergies: Allergies can cause itching and discomfort, leading infants to rub their eyes. Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.

- Irritants: Smoke, strong odors, or even soap can irritate the eyes and cause rubbing.

- Eyelash Issues: You mentioned that your infant has some eyelashes that may be turned inward (a condition known as trichiasis). This can cause irritation and discomfort, leading to eye rubbing.

- Fatigue: Sometimes, infants rub their eyes when they are tired or overstimulated.

2. Solutions for Eye Rubbing:
- Identify and Avoid Allergens: If you suspect allergies, try to identify potential allergens in your home and minimize exposure. This could include using air purifiers or keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons.

- Gentle Eye Care: If there is any discharge or crusting around the eyes, gently clean the area with a warm, damp cloth. Avoid using any harsh soaps or chemicals near the eyes.

- Consult an Eye Specialist: If the eye rubbing continues or if you notice signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s advisable to consult a pediatric ophthalmologist. They can assess for any underlying issues, including the condition of the eyelashes.

Conclusion
In summary, your infant’s coughing and eye rubbing could be related to several factors, including reflux, allergies, or irritants. It’s crucial to monitor the symptoms closely and consult with healthcare professionals for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Keeping a record of when the symptoms occur, any potential triggers, and your infant's feeding patterns can be helpful information to share with your pediatrician. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have concerns.

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