Q: My 7 years old son is suffering from cough and cold for the last 3-4 weeks. The problem is more severe during night and early mornings, though it is intermittent throughout the day. The weather in our city is wet and cold, and my son is prone to allergy. He has been given anti-allergic syrups and medicines like Salmodil, antibiotic like Taxim-O 100 mg and other common cough syrup and drops such as Benadryl and Vicks. Please advise.

A:Your son might be suffering from wheeze associated lower respiratory infection (known earlier variously as asthmatic bronchitis, allergic bronchitis, etc.). Inferring from his prescriptions, your son's own paediatrician also has the same idea. Usually, such illnesses require long-term medicines. Nebulisation is an option, which will afford immediate relief. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition, which might delay the resolution of the respiratory infection. Kindly discuss with your paediatrician. He/she will be able to tailor the appropriate combination of treatment for your child.