What is a common non-infectious cause of a persistent cough in children?

A persistent cough in children can be commonly associated with asthma due to its characteristic features. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that often manifests with symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In children, the cough may be particularly pronounced at night or in response to exercise or allergens.

Asthmatic cough is typically non-productive and can be triggered by various factors, making it a significant consideration when diagnosing persistent coughs in a pediatric population. The underlying airway hyperreactivity and inflammation in asthma can lead to cough as a primary symptom, differentiating it from other conditions that may have additional symptoms or present differently.

In contrast, while allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis can also contribute to cough due to post-nasal drip, they are not always persistent and tend to be more associated with nasal symptoms. Cystic fibrosis, while a serious condition that can lead to chronic cough due to lung involvement, is less common as a general non-infectious cause compared to asthma. Therefore, asthma stands out as a prevalent non-infectious cause of a persistent cough in children, emphasizing the importance of recognizing its symptoms for effective diagnosis and management.