Hello and welcome to HCM. Thank you for your query. Your sons description is a troubling one. Let me try to suggest a few possibilities for this. At first, he could have an infection or an allergic reaction due to which mucus/phlegm is being produced. A diagnosis will have to be made only after a physical examination and detailed history. This mucus/phlegm could be causing irritation/obstruction that causes his cough. In some individuals, coupled with anxiety issues, this results in episodes of severe coughing. Once, other serious conditions have been ruled out, this possibility could be considered. Treatment includes treating the infection (antibiotics), allergies (anti-histamine), anti-inflammatory, broncho-dilators, anti-tussive medications. The next possibility is pertusis. This condition has a typical type of cough called whooping cough. Other symptoms include: nasal congestion, runny nose, dry persistent cough, fever, red/watery eyes, etc. Please visit a doctor at the earliest, who will evaluate your son, reach a diagnosis and accordingly treat him. In the meantime, home remedies include: steam inhalation, application of vaporubs, sips of lukewarm water. I hope I have succeeded in providing the information you were looking for. Please feel free to write back to me for any further clarifications. I would gladly help you. Best wishes.