Can Cold Drinks Cause Coughs and Colds in Children? | Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Many parents worry that drinking cold drinks might cause coughs, colds, or sore throats in children. Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat explains the medical facts, the role of asthma and allergies, and why warm water is still the healthier choice for your child’s daily habits.
Can Cold Drinks Cause Coughs and Colds in Children?
It’s a common belief among parents that drinking cold drinks can make children sick, leading to coughs, colds, or sore throats — especially in children under 7 years old.
At Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, we often hear questions like: “Doctor, is it true my child will get sick if they drink cold water or iced drinks?”
From a medical perspective, there is no direct scientific correlation between cold drinks and viral infections such as the common cold or flu. These illnesses are caused by viruses, not by the temperature of drinks.
However, for certain children, especially those with asthma, allergic rhinitis (resdung), or sinus issues, cold drinks can act as a cold trigger.
Understanding Cold Triggers
Cold triggers are factors such as cold weather, chilled environments, or icy drinks that can irritate the respiratory tract. When this irritation happens, it can cause:
- Swelling of the throat or tonsils
- Increased mucus production in the sinuses
- Coughing and breathing discomfort
For children with asthma or respiratory allergies, this can lead to flare-ups or attacks. Parents of such children are advised to limit or avoid cold drinks to prevent unnecessary discomfort or health risks.
Why Warm Water is Preferred
While cold drinks are not the root cause of infections, many pediatricians, including Dr Low, recommend warm water for children.
This is partly for health reasons and partly for habit-building — encouraging children to drink warm or room-temperature water helps soothe the throat, supports digestion, and avoids sudden temperature shocks in the body.
Parental Guidance
If your child is generally healthy, an occasional cold drink may not cause problems. However, if your child has:
- Asthma
- Frequent allergies
- Sinus issues
…it’s safer to avoid cold triggers altogether.
At Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, we aim to guide parents with evidence-based advice while also respecting cultural health practices.
The key takeaway: cold drinks don’t directly cause coughs and colds, but they can aggravate symptoms in sensitive children. Choosing warm water is still the best daily habit for your child’s long-term health.
If you have concerns about your child’s coughs, colds, or breathing health, feel free to visit our clinic for a detailed check-up.
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