Croup
What you need to know
I remember when my daughter Kerri was about 6 years old, both her and her older brother, Shaun, came down with croup.
Whilst croup is a common respiratory condition in babies and toddlers, it can be quite distressing for children and equally as frightening for parents.
Statistics tell us that children are most susceptible from ages 3 months to 5 years but it’s not uncommon for older children to get croup too.
What are the symptoms of Croup ?
The symptoms of croup can vary, however, the most recognizable sign that your child has croup is a very distinctive barking sound when they cough.
This cough is often worse at night and can be accomanied by other symptoms, including:
- Hoarse voice
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Strider ( labored or noisy breathing)
These symptoms differ in severity in all children and can range from mild to severe. Some children may only have a cough, whilst other children may struggle to breathe.
What causes croup ?
Croup is typically caused by a viral infection that leads to inflammation and swelling in the larynx ( voice box) and the trachea ( windpipe) causing narrowing in the airways and making it harder for air to pass, resulting in the distinct coughing, and making it difficult for your child to breathe.
The viruses which are most commonly responsible for croup are:
- Parainfluenza virus
- Influenza ( flu)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus ( RSV)
- Adenovirus
Is croup contagious?
Yes, croup is contagious and spreads the same way as most viruses, through contamination with someone infected. The virus remains contagious for up to three days after your child has developed symptoms or until your child’s fever has gone. Doctors advise keeping your child at home to prevent spreading the virus.
How to treat croup
In most cases of mild croup. A child can be treated at home, using some of these simple remedies to ease the symptoms.
- Steam or cool the air – placing your child in a bathroom with a screaming shower or bath or taking them outside into the cool night air can help to reduce thr swelling in the airways and make it easier for your child to breathe.
- Humidifier – a humidifier will keep the air moist and help your child breathe easier.
- Hydration- regular fluid intakes will both help your child to stay hydrated as well as thin any mucus, reducing the coughing.
- Keep upright-sitting upright reduces pressure on your child’s airways.
- Soothe the throat – your child will have a sore throat from coughing, you can reduce that irritation by offering cough drops or a spoon of honey. ( *Before giving any medication, please consulte with a doctor)
When to seek medical care
Most cases of croup are mild, however if your child’s symptoms worsen please seek medical advice.
You should consult your doctor if your child:
- Has difficulty breathing
- Has a blue tint around their mouth or lips, as this will indicate that they are struggling to breathe and have low levels of Oxygen
- Drowsy or is struggling to wake up
- Shows any signs of dehydration.
- The Strider sound worsens, especially while resting.
In a severe case your doctor will prescribe a steroid treatment to reduce inflammation. Hospitalization may be required if your child’s breathing is compromised.
How to prevent croup
Although it’s not always possible to prevent croup, especially during the Winter months, there are certain things you can do to limit infection.
- Hygiene- teaching your child to wash their hands and face correctly and reguarly will limit exposure to illness.
- Exposure- limit your exposure to anyone who is ill.
- Vaccinate- Kerping a child vaccinated will help to keep them healthy.
- Cleaning – keeping your child’s toys clean and your surfaces disinfected will also limit illness.
Croup can be frightening, however it is manageable. Always keep an eye on your child’s symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen. With proper treatment and care your child should recover in a few days.
