What is Croup?
Croup is a common respiratory condition that primarily affects young children. It's characterized by inflammation of the upper airways, specifically the larynx (voice box) and trachea (windpipe).
Key Symptoms
- Distinctive barking cough (often described as 'seal-like')
- Stridor (high-pitched whistling sound when breathing in)
- Hoarse voice
- Difficulty breathing
- Symptoms typically worsen at night
Who Gets Croup?
- Most common in children 6 months to 3 years old
- Can affect older children up to age 8
- More frequent in boys than girls
- Usually occurs in fall and winter months
Causes
- Usually viral infections (most commonly parainfluenza virus)
- Less commonly caused by bacterial infections
- Can be triggered by allergies or reflux in rare cases
Treatment Options
At Home Care
- Stay calm and keep your child calm
- Sit upright or hold child upright
- Breathe cool night air or humid air
- Drink plenty of fluids
Medical Treatment
- Oral or inhaled corticosteroids
- Epinephrine treatments (in severe cases)
- Oxygen therapy if needed
When to Seek Emergency Care
- Severe breathing difficulty
- Blue-tinged skin (cyanosis)
- Drooling or difficulty swallowing
- Extreme fatigue or lethargy
- Stridor at rest
Prevention
- Regular hand washing
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
- Maintaining good hygiene practices
- Keeping vaccinations up to date
Prognosis
Most cases resolve within 3-7 days. Symptoms are typically worst on the second or third night and gradually improve afterward.
Follow-up Care
Consult your healthcare provider if:
- Symptoms persist beyond a week
- Fever lasts more than 3 days
- Symptoms recur frequently