Croup

What Is Croup?

Croup is an infection that damages the mucous membranes, especially at the level of the trachea and vocal cords. It occurs most often in children between 6 months and three years. In most cases, it goes away on its own, although in some cases, it is necessary to show the child to a doctor.

What are the symptoms of croup?

Croup usually begins with signs of a cold - runny nose, cough, and general weakness. After one or two days, the following symptoms appear:

Barking cough with wheezing;
Change in the timbre of the voice when speaking;
Often accompanied by a fever of 38° or more;
Periodic noisy breathing. Especially on inhalation - inspiratory stridor;
Symptoms most often develop at midnight.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Call an ambulance if:

The child is pale or livid (cyanosis);
The child has lost his voice or has a barking cough;
Can't cry or scream because of shortness of breath;
The child is unconscious;
Sleepy or not communicating.

Contact your pediatrician if:

Coughing is prolonged;
The child has increased salivation or difficulty swallowing;
Noisy breathing, even when the child is resting;
There is a concavity in the ribs;
Infants (up to 3 months of age) have a fever of 38° or higher;
Fever lasts more than three days in children (3 months and older);
The child has had signs of croup for more than seven days.

How Is Croup Treated?

The doctor will help the child with an oxygen mask and medicine to relieve swelling (hormone and/or adrenaline). Antibiotics are not used for croup because the cause of croup is a virus, and antibiotics do not work on the virus.

Can I Help My Child at Home?

Yes, It Is Possible!

Take the child in your arms and hold him in a comfortable position, reassure him, and try not to cry too much.
Dress warmly and take him outside, or open a window and let him get some cool air.
Give him warm fluids to drink.
Treat fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Stay close to the child and sleep in the same room.
Do not let anyone smoke near the child.

Why Does Croup Happen to a Child?

Croup is a viral infection that can be passed from someone with a viral infection to a child by coughing or sneezing. It is transmitted within three days of the onset of symptoms and/or during a fever.

Is It Possible to Prevent Croup?

You will reduce the chance of developing croup if you follow these rules:

Wash your hands often, and wash your child's hands with soap and running water. You can use disinfectants;
Keep your child away from people with viral infections;
Give children six months and older a seasonal flu shot.