Croup

Croup causes swelling around vocal cords and airways. Children usually get croup between 3 months and 5 years of age. It is a scary, but not usually dangerous condition. Croup often occurs several days after a child has mild symptoms of a cold.

Signs & Symptoms

• A cough that sounds like a seal’s bark
• Hoarseness
• A high-pitched, squeaky voice when breathing in

Symptoms of croup can also be like symptoms of more serious problems. These include:

• Epiglottitis. This is a bacterial infection that can cause the back of the throat to swell up. If the throat is blocked, breathing in is very difficult. Severe respiratory distress can result. Signs of epiglottitis are:
• • Drooling
  • Hanging the head down
  • Sticking out the jaw to breathe
  • Fever
• Something can be stuck in your child's windpipe.

Causes

Croup is usually caused by a certain virus. Other viruses, allergies, bacteria, and inhaled foreign objects can mimic croup.

Treatment

Self-care measures can treat symptoms. Croup usually goes away in 3 to 7 days. It is usually worse at night. Emergency care is needed for severe problems breathing.

Self-Care

• Don’t panic. You can help your child stay calm if you stay calm. Hold your child to comfort them. The windpipe may open up a little if your child relaxes. Call your child’s doctor or get immediate care if you are not sure what to do.
• Try to keep your child calm. Croup symptoms tend to get worse if your child is crying and upset.
• Go into the bathroom with your child and close the door.

1. Turn on the hot water in the sink and shower. Let the steam fill the room.

2. Don’t put your child in the shower. Sit with your child. (Don’t sit on the floor.) Read a book or play a game with your child. This will help pass the time.

3. Open the window to let cool air in. This helps make more steam.