What You Should Know About
Croup
Croup is a viral respiratory infection that usually affects children between 3 months and 5 years of age. The infection is most common in the fall and winter during the cold season. In most cases, it develops shortly after an upper respiratory infection and lasts about 7 to 10 days.
Symptoms of croup commonly include a low-grade fever, a brassy or barking cough, a hoarse cry, hoarse noises (called stridor) that can be heard when the child inhales, and trouble breathing. These symptoms are caused by swelling in the child's windpipe. They usually start in the evening and worsen at night.
Treatments and Tips
In most cases, croup can be treated effectively at home. One way to help reduce the coughing and other symptoms is to run a hot shower for 15 minutes or so with the bathroom door closed. For many children, breathing this highly humid air helps to reduce the symptoms of croup. For some children, breathing cold air can help to reduce the symptoms.
A child with croup should get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Also, because crying increases respiratory distress, try to keep the child calm and soothed. If the child develops continuous respiratory stridor, has great trouble breathing, or you see the skin sinking inward around the neck or ribs as the child tries to breathe, seek medical care right away.
If necessary, a doctor may give the child an inhaled or oral medication called a corticosteroid to help decrease swelling and spasms in the breathing passages. However, because croup is caused by a virus, antibiotics (which are used to treat bacteria) usually aren't helpful. A severe case of croup may warrant a brief stay in the hospital so doctors and nurses can constantly monitor the child's breathing and oxygen level.
Keep in mind that croup tends to recur during childhood. Usually, however, the attacks because less frequent and eventually disappear as the child grows.
Where to Get More Information
For more information, try these online resources.
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