Croup

We have selected the following expert medical opinion based on its clarity, reliability and accuracy. Credits: Sourced from the Cleveland Clinic, Ohio. Please refer to your own medical practitioner for a final perspective, assessment or evaluation.

Overview

What is croup?

Croup is a respiratory infection that affects children, mainly during the fall and winter months. It affects children under age 5, and symptoms are most severe in children under age 3. Croup may last from 5 to 6 days, depending on the severity of the infection. It may have other complications, such as ear infection or pneumonia.

Croup is most commonly caused by viruses such as influenza, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles, and adenovirus, but is occasionally caused by bacteria. This infection causes the upper airways to swell, making it difficult to breathe.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of croup?

• A harsh or "barky" cough.
• Stridor (harsh, raspy vibrating sound when breathing in).
• Difficulty breathing.
• Difficulty bending the neck.
• High fever.
• Restlessness or nervousness at night or when it becomes harder to breathe.

Diagnosis

How can I tell if my child has croup?

Although there are recognizable signs of croup, any illness that makes it difficult for your child to breathe should be evaluated by your child's doctor.

Treatment

If my child has croup, how can I care for him or her at home?

• Do not allow anyone to smoke around your child or in your home.
• Give your child all medicines as instructed by the doctor.
• A cool mist vaporizer may help soothe dry and irritated airways. Your doctor may recommend a vaporizer.
• Allow your child to rest as needed.
• Call the doctor if your child's symptoms worsen or begin to return.
• Cough medicines are usually not helpful.

When a child has a severe case of croup and has to go to the hospital, care may include the following:

• Breathing treatments (aerosols).
• A cool mist tent.
• Rest
• Medications given by mouth.
• Medications given intravenously (IV).
• Medications given by injection (shot).

Prevention

How can the spread of croup be prevented?

Croup can by spread by physical contact or through the air. To help prevent its spread:

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly after caring for your child.
• Try washing toys between each use.
• Encourage your child to cover his or her mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
• Keep your child home from school or daycare when she is ill or if outbreaks occur.
• Throw used tissues away.

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