Croup is a viral illness which strikes in the fall and winter months. It is an infection of the upper airway which causes swelling around the area of the vocal cords. The most common symptom is a "croupy cough" described as a "bark" (more like a seal than a dog). But it can also cause something called "stridor". This is a loud noise that you hear as your child breathes in and out. It is very frightening for parents because breathing can sometimes become difficult especially for infants and toddlers. If you have never experienced croup before, this is a time to call your pediatrician in the middle of the night. So to be prepared in case "croup" pays a visit to your house this fall, let's understand what croup is and how to begin treatment at home.
There are two types of croup:
Spasmodic Croup comes on very suddenly, usually in the middle of the night. This is usually when we hear the "barking cough". Most children are not in distress but just coughing loudly. Take the child into the bathroom and have him or her sit on your lap while you fill the room with steam. Let him breathe the warm, moist air for about 10 minutes. If this does not work, a walk outside in the cool air, or a drive around the block with the windows down can sometimes stop the croup as quickly as it started. If symptoms show no sign of improvement, and especially if your child seems worse or is having difficulty breathing, keep driving to the Emergency Room.
Laryngotrachetis is a related viral illness that comes on gradually over a few days with a low grade fever, cold symptoms, a hoarse cry or voice, and a croupy cough which gets worse at night. It is usually not as dramatic as spasmodic croup. Although steam and cool mist vaporizers can provide some relief, you will need to call your doctor for further advice.
If your child is having "stridor" take your child to the nearest emergency room for treatment. Try to keep them (and yourself) calm because it can worsen if your child is upset. Very rarely with croup, your child may have real distress while breathing, does not appear to be moving much air or has bluish color in the face or lips, if this occurs call 911 immediately.
About the Author
Dr. Mary Ann LoFrumento, MD, F.A.A.P., pediatrician, mother and author, has more than 20 years experience answering parents' questions about how to raise their children. She recently launched Simply Parenting, a book and DVD series designed to end parents' anxiety and insecurity and bring parenting back to basics.
