📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Shazinsharaf
Health
Rise in Chest Congestion and Breathing Problems Among Children in Mohali, Doctors Warn OTC Medicines
✍️ Amar Ujala · Mohali
🗓 28 Oct 2026, 02:32 AM
👁 19
Health officials in Mohali report an increase in chest congestion and breathing difficulties among children, urging caution over over‑the‑counter medicines.
Medical practitioners in Mohali have observed a noticeable uptick in cases of chest congestion and associated breathing difficulties among pediatric patients over the past weeks. The trend appears across clinics and hospitals in the city, prompting local health authorities to issue an advisory. Doctors emphasize that while mild symptoms are common during seasonal changes, the current rise warrants closer monitoring.
Physicians caution that many parents resort to over‑the‑counter (OTC) cough and cold preparations without professional guidance. They point out that some OTC formulations contain ingredients that can exacerbate respiratory distress in children, especially when dosed incorrectly. The medical community recommends consulting a pediatrician before administering any medication for chest or breathing complaints.
The advisory also highlights preventive measures such as maintaining indoor air quality, ensuring adequate hydration, and avoiding exposure to smoke or pollutants. Parents are urged to seek prompt medical attention if a child shows persistent wheezing, rapid breathing, or difficulty speaking full sentences. Health officials will continue to track the situation and update the public as more data become available.
Physicians caution that many parents resort to over‑the‑counter (OTC) cough and cold preparations without professional guidance. They point out that some OTC formulations contain ingredients that can exacerbate respiratory distress in children, especially when dosed incorrectly. The medical community recommends consulting a pediatrician before administering any medication for chest or breathing complaints.
The advisory also highlights preventive measures such as maintaining indoor air quality, ensuring adequate hydration, and avoiding exposure to smoke or pollutants. Parents are urged to seek prompt medical attention if a child shows persistent wheezing, rapid breathing, or difficulty speaking full sentences. Health officials will continue to track the situation and update the public as more data become available.