Croup

Croup

Croup is a viral infection of the throat and windpipe that causes swelling of the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea), resulting in noisy breathing and a barking type cough. Often croup begins as a cold. It can be worse at night when the weather is cooler. Croup usually affects babies and young children.

Causes of croup

The airways of babies and children are already narrow compared to adults. When they become unwell with a viral infection it causes the airway to swell and become narrower whilst also developing mucous, making it difficult for air to reach the lungs and difficult for children to breath.

Signs and Symptoms

Croup often develops like the common cold then your child may progress to have:

• A hoarse voice.
• A harsh barking cough.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Noisy breathing also called a stridor (sounds squeaky).

Often the symptoms start at night when the air is cooler and dry. The symptoms can become worse when the child is upset.  Croup can last for approximately 3-4 days.

Treatment

While croup is often mild it can get worse quickly. If your child is severe they will need urgent medical attention in the emergency department.

Mild croup can be managed at home with the following:

• Give analgesia for a fever if your child is irritable.
• Keep your child calm and quiet.
• Croup can be worse at night and some children are more settled if they have someone stay with them.
• Offer your child plenty to drink in small sips.
• Your child may feel more comfortable sitting up with pillows.

If your child requires treatment for croup they will be given Prednisolone (steroid) by the doctors which helps reduce the swelling in the airways. In severe case adrenaline may be administered via a nebulizer or an injection, which relieves the swelling until the prednisolone takes effect. Antibiotics will not treat croup as it is a virus.

Steam therapy does not help. This was recommended in the past including the use of vaporizers.  Current research shows this of no benefit and regarded as dangerous because of accidental burns.

Things to remember

• Croup usually lasts approximately 3-4 days.
• There is no specific treatment for croup.
• Keep your child calm.
• Croup can become worse quickly and may require treatment and observation in hospital if severe.

If you are concerned about your child you should seek medical advice. If your child looks sick, pale drowsy or blue in the lips you should call an ambulance immediately.