Tag: viral infection
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Best Treatment for a Teen Hacking Cough: When to See a GP
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…
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Best Treatment for a Teen with a Hacking Cough: When to Treat at Home and When to See a Doctor
Understanding the Basics: Viral vs. Bacterial Coughs in Teens When a teenager develops a hacking cough, distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections helps guide treatment. Antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses, so most coughs in teens are viral and self-resolve with time and supportive care. Misusing antibiotics not only fails to help but can disrupt healthy…
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Dr Phil Kieran on Teen Coughs: The Best Approach for a Hacking Cough
Understanding the cough: viral versus bacterial When your teenager develops a hacking cough, it’s natural to wonder what the best treatment is. Dr. Phil Kieran emphasizes a practical starting point: trust your instincts. If you believe your child is significantly unwell and may need a doctor’s intervention, you are probably right. If you feel they…