Show
Croup is an illness that is usually caused by a virus. The tissues of the windpipe (trachea) and voice box (larynx) become swollen. The swelling narrows the trachea, which makes it harder for air to get into the lungs. It often starts as a “cold.” Croup can cause a barky cough or hoarse voice and is usually worse at night. Croup occurs most often during the fall and winter seasons, but it can occur year round. It usually affects children 3 months to 5 years of age. Croup is contagious (can be spread to others). A child can get croup more than once. What You will Hear and SeeAt first, your child may have a stuffy or runny nose and may have a low fever. As the swelling gets worse, he or she will get a barky cough and his voice may sound hoarse. When your child breathes in, you may hear a "crowing" or a high-pitched squeaking sound, called stridor. He may also breathe very fast or have retractions. Retractions are when the skin of the child’s neck or ribs pulls in when breathing in. Your child may become frightened or upset. What to doThere is no medicine that will get rid of the virus, but you can do some things to help your child breathe easier until the infection goes away.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if your child’s lips or face turns bluish, if he is working hard to breathe, cannot speak or drink, or is drooling. Treating Croup with Medicines
When to Call the DoctorCall the doctor if your child:
If you have any questions, please call your health provider. Croup (PDF) HH-I-19 4/78, Revised 3/17 Copyright 1978 Nationwide Children’s Hospital DiagnosisCroup is typically diagnosed by a doctor. He or she will:
Sometimes X-rays or other tests are used to rule out other possible illnesses. TreatmentThe majority of children with croup can be treated at home. Still croup can be scary, especially if it lands your child in the doctor's office, emergency room or hospital. Treatment is typically based on the severity of symptoms. Comfort measuresComforting your child and keeping him or her calm are important, because crying and agitation worsen airway obstruction. Hold your child, sing lullabies or read quiet stories. Offer a favorite blanket or toy. Speak in a soothing voice. MedicationIf your child's symptoms persist beyond three to five days or worsen, your child's doctor may prescribe these medications:
HospitalizationFor severe croup, your child may need to spend time in a hospital to be monitored and receive additional treatments. Sign up for free, and stay
up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with other information we have about you. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could include protected health information. If we combine this information with your protected health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Lifestyle and home remediesCroup often runs its course within three to five days. In the meantime, keep your child comfortable with a few simple measures:
Your child's cough may improve during the day, but don't be surprised if it returns at night. You may want to sleep near your child or even in the same room so that you can take quick action if your child's symptoms become severe. Preparing for your appointmentIn most cases of croup, your child won't need to see a doctor. However, if your child's symptoms are severe or aren't responding to home treatment, you should call your doctor. What you can doBefore your appointment, make a list of:
What to expect from your doctorYour child's doctor will likely ask a number of questions to help determine the best course of treatment:
Your doctor will ask additional questions based on your responses and your child's symptoms and needs. Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your time with the doctor. Oct. 02, 2021 How do you break up a croup cough?Lifestyle and home remedies. Stay calm. Comfort or distract your child — cuddle, read a book or play a quiet game. ... . Provide humidified or cool air. ... . Hold your child in a comfortable upright position. ... . Offer fluids. ... . Encourage rest. ... . Try a fever reducer. ... . Skip the cold medicines.. Will croup cough go away by itself?Most croup will go away by itself, but parents should steer clear of treating croup with over-the-counter cough or cold medicines. “They cause significant side effects,” says Dr. Giuliano.
How long should a child with croup stay home?Children with croup should be considered contagious for three days after the illness begins or until the fever is gone. Croup is usually mild, although it is possible for symptoms to become severe and life-threatening.
When should I be concerned about croup cough?Croup is usually mild and treatable at home. However, it's an illness that can quickly become serious. Severe croup can cause breathing difficulties in general but if your child's skin “caves in” around their neck or ribs when they try to inhale, you should seek urgent medical treatment.
|