IF your youngster has fallen sick, it can be distressing to hear them coughing.
Thankfully, these noises are generally nothing to worry about – but they can be a sign a child needs medical attention, according to a nurse.
Paediatric specialist Penny, who runs the site Sick Happens, said there are five red flags in particular that parents should never ignore.
In an Instagram post, the nurse highlighted the following:
1. Pauses in breathing
Firstly, if you witness your kid starting to cough with pauses between breaths, they might be suffering from apnoeas, Penny said.
The symptom appears when your child has almost no airflow and struggles to exhale and inhale – meaning they need to see a doctor.
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It is also common in adults, who can suffer from pauses in breathing while sleeping – which can be dangerous.
2. Changing colour
It is often normal for children to go red in the face during a coughing episode, according to Penny.
But it could be dangerous if they turn pale, blue or dusky around the mouth, lips or face.
"If you notice them becoming floppy or unresponsive during these episodes, call an ambulance," Penny said.
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3. Difficulty regaining breath
Another serious symptom to be on the lookout for, Penny said, is when youngsters have difficulty regaining their breath.
If this happens, they might be suffering from an airway blockage, which can be serious and requires assistance.
4. Noisy breathing
If a child suffers a "sudden onset", it could be a sign of a common illness.
The nurse said: "If you notice your child develops a barking cough very suddenly, it is most likely croup.
"Not all cases of croup need treatment but if they have noisy breathing at rest, or any difficulty breathing, call an ambulance."
According to the NHS, the condition can be "managed at home" if the croup is mild.
But if symptoms continue, they should see a GP.
Doctors said: "This will often involve using children's paracetamol to ease any pain associated with the condition and may help lower your child's temperature if they have a fever.
"You should also ensure your child is well hydrated by encouraging them to drink plenty of fluids."
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5. Fever
The last key symptom to be cautious of is the combination of coughing and a fever, Penny said.
The paediatric expert urged parents to take their children to a doctor if they have had "a recent episode of choking and gagging" alongside a high temperature.
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