Understanding a teen’s hacking cough: viral vs. bacterial
For most teens, a stubborn cough after a respiratory infection is viral in origin. Antibiotics don’t target viruses, and using them when they’re not needed can do more harm than good by disturbing healthy bacteria in the gut and contributing to antibiotic resistance. A clinician will consider whether a bacterial infection is suspected, but in the majority of cases, supportive care is the right approach while the body fights the virus.
Trusting your instincts and knowing when to seek care
Dr. Phil Kieran emphasizes a simple rule: trust your instincts. If you believe your teen is significantly unwell and needs a doctor’s intervention, you’re probably right. If you think they’re manageable at home and showing steady improvement, you’re likely correct too. This balanced approach helps avoid unnecessary visits while ensuring serious concerns aren’t overlooked.
How long a cough lasts and what to expect
It’s normal for a cough to linger after a viral illness. While the initial infection may last a few days, the cough can take up to three weeks (roughly 21–26 days) to settle fully. This timeline helps set expectations and reduces the urge to chase quick fixes that aren’t scientifically proven.
What about cough syrups and over-the-counter remedies?
Many cough syrups aren’t proven to work well in teens, and some don’t offer meaningful relief. A 2023 review found honey to be as effective as common ingredients in anti-cough medications for children over 12 months old. If choosing a remedy, honey is a safe, natural option to try for teens older than one year, provided there are no allergies and no diabetes risk or other contraindications advised by a clinician. Avoid giving honey to children under 1 year due to the risk of infant botulism.
When to see a GP
Go to your GP for a review if the cough has lasted more than three weeks, if it’s getting worse rapidly, or if there are breathing difficulties such as wheezing, rapid breathing, or shortness of breath. These could signal complications that need medical evaluation and possible intervention.
Signs that the cough could be asthma
If your teen experiences a cough without a cold, at night, or with exercise, this could indicate asthma. Cough-variant asthma is common in teens and can benefit from targeted treatment. A healthcare provider can assess respiratory symptoms, perform tests if needed, and discuss an appropriate plan, which may include inhaled medications or other therapies.
Practical at-home care tips
– Ensure rest and gradual return to activity as energy allows.
– Encourage hydration and balanced meals to support the immune system.
– Consider honey for teens over 12 months old as a potential cough helper, if no contraindications exist.
– Use a cool-mist humidifier in the teen’s room to ease throat irritation.
– Practice gentle, productive coughing techniques and avoid suppressing a productive cough unnecessarily.
– Monitor for fever, chest pain, or any signs of breathing difficulty, and seek care promptly if these occur.
A practical, measured approach
Ultimately, most teen hacking coughs resolve with time and supportive care. Antibiotics should not be used unless a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. By listening to your instincts, recognizing normal cough patterns, and seeking care when warning signs appear, you can navigate this common issue effectively.
