Babies are very delicate and rely completely on their parents for protection and well-being. Many new moms and dads cherish the chance to see their little ones chuckle or gurgle. However, if that turns into a cough, reactions tend to be less cheery. At such a tender age, a cough is always something to take note of, as it may require treatment beyond just symptom relief. It's important to analyze the type of a cough as well as any other symptoms present in order to determine the right next steps.

Causes of Coughing among 2-Month-Old Babies

Coughs can have many different causes, but among babies under 4 months old, they are always a sign of infection. The most common causes include:

1. Common cold

Common colds at this stage can be usually recognized when the 2-month old baby is coughing and sneezing, but no fever is present. They are the most common cause of coughing in babies. Occasionally, the nose may also be stuffy or runny. Most often, a cold-related cough sounds like a dry hack.

2. Flu (influenza)

Just like adults, the symptoms for a flu can be very similar to those of the common cold, except significantly more severe. In addition, sometimes babies will present a mild fever and itchy eyes. Among babies under 4 months old, flus can be dangerous as they can become pneumonia.

3. Croup

This is a type of convulsive cough that is common among babies and tends to present itself at night. It is often not accompanied by any other symptoms of infection, but it sounds like a dry, barking cough that comes abruptly.

4. Respiratory Viral Infection

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a very serious respiratory infection among babies. It can usually be recognized by a cough that seems accompanied by wheezing or noisy breathing.

5. Whooping cough

Also known clinically as pertussis, this is a serious infection that is potentially life-threatening for babies under 6 months old. Until about 10 years ago, whooping cough cases were at an all-time low because of vaccinations. However, the disease began cropping up again around 2012 in both the United States and Europe. Whooping cough can be recognized by a severe, alarming cough that may keep the child from breathing. During a whooping cough attack, the baby may experience bulging eyes, his or her tongue may stick out, and lips may appear discolored. If this happens, it's best to seek immediate medical assistance.

6. Choking

Choking can happen whenever a piece of food or other object is swallowed and starts obstructing the airways. Unlike those caused by an infection, the coughing caused by choking is very sudden, very intense, and will not be accompanied by runny noses or itchy eyes. Instead, the baby will be unable to make many noises, the lips will turn blue, and the chest may look turned inwards. A baby who is choking needs immediate attention. In these cases, it's necessary to try slapping it on the back or chest a few times to help dislodge the object, and call an ambulance.

Relieving Baby's Discomfort

A 2-month old with cough and congestion, or any baby under 4 months old who is having a cough, should get a visit scheduled with their pediatrician. However, until it's time for the appointment, there are several ways to help relieve the baby's discomfort. These include:

• Taking plenty of fluids
  
  
• Using a humidifier to relieve airway inflammation
  
  
• Using saline drops in the nose or throat
  
  
• Raising the baby's head or top of their crib mattress
  
  
• Stay with the baby at all times to check on their progress
  
  

Although there are many decongestants and cough drops made especially for children, it's important to read all labels carefully. Many of these medications are only for toddlers ages 2 or older, not for babies. It's very important to never give such meds to a 2-month old, even if only half a dose.

When to Seek Medical Assistance

Because babies are so delicate at this stage, there are certain red flags that their parents should check for. The presence of any of the following signs should prompt an immediate visit to the pediatrician.

1. A cough that gets worse

If the coughing fits get more frequent or more prolonged, that is a sign that the disease is getting worse. Even if it doesn't get worse, a 2-month old baby coughing for over three days straight should be taken to a pediatrician without delay.

2. Fever

For a 2-month old baby, any temperature above 38C, or 100F, is considered fever and is a sure sign that it's time to see a doctor.

3. Dehydration

This can be harder to spot, but if a baby seems overly thirsty, has very dark urine, or has stopped peeing, it could be a sign of dehydration. In addition, parents should be on the lookout for a dry mouth, or if the baby is crying with fewer tears than usual.

4. Trouble breathing

Any cough that is so intense that it keeps the baby from breathing warrants an immediate visit to the doctor. If the cough is so intense that the baby's lips or fingertips turn dark (blue, purplish, or dusky-colored) then it's time to call emergency services instead.

Summary

Coughing is a very common symptom in children and adults, and usually nothing to worry about. In the case of a 2-month old baby, however, it should be dealt with. While most cases of colds and croup are not life-threatening, at such a tender age it's best to stay on the safe side.