Even though not all children get croup when infected by the virus, the virus that has caused the croup can be spread easily from person to person by coughing and sneezing. Regularly washing hands thoroughly can help prevent the spread of viruses.
In the past, some doctors recommended exposure to mist or steam therapy, including the use of vaporisers. Research evidence now shows this to be of no benefit and it is no longer recommended. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers. To donate, visit www.
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The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Signs and symptoms of croup Croup usually begins like a normal cold, e. Read more about treating croup Complications Most cases of croup clear up within 48 hours.
It is extremely rare for a child to die from croup. Preventing croup Croup is spread in a similar way to the common cold, so it is difficult to prevent. Symptoms of croup A child can get croup at any time of the year, although it's more likely to occur during late autumn or early winter.
Typical symptoms of croup include: a bark-like cough a hoarse or croaky voice difficulty breathing a harsh grating sound when breathing in, called stridor Stridor is often most noticeable when the child cries or coughs. Symptoms tend to be worse at night.
Some children have cold-like symptoms for a few days before developing croup symptoms. These cold-like symptoms can include: sore throat runny nose cough high temperature fever Although croup symptoms usually only last for a few days, they can occasionally last up to two weeks. When to seek medical advice Croup can usually be diagnosed by a GP and mild cases can be treated at home. Causes of croup Croup usually develops as the result of a viral infection. It is sometimes called laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis Parainfluenza virus The parainfluenza virus is the most common cause of croup.
Other viruses A number of other viruses can also cause croup. These include: influenza A and B flu viruses the measles virus, in children who have not been immunised against measles the rhinovirus common cold virus enteroviruses the respiratory syncytial virus RSV , which can cause severe breathing problems and pneumonia in babies Other causes Less common causes of croup include: inhaling a small object such as a peanut or a pen cap inhaled foreign body epiglottitis — inflammation of the epiglottis, the flap at the base of the tongue that keeps food from going into the windpipe an allergic reaction to substances such as pollen or dust mites inhalation of irritants, such as chemicals acid leaking back out of the stomach and into the throat acid reflux.
Diagnosing croup A GP can diagnose croup by studying your child's symptoms, particularly the sound of their cough. Differentiating these causes from croup may require further tests. Further investigation If your child is admitted to hospital with severe croup, or if treatment is unsuccessful, further investigations may be needed to examine their neck and chest area for a possible obstruction.
Treating croup Treatment of croup depends on how severe the symptoms are. However, if your child has severe croup, they will need to be admitted to hospital urgently.
Treatment croup at home If your GP thinks your child has mild croup, they will usually recommend managing it at home. Painkillers for children Painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen , are available in liquid form for children. Children under 16 years of age should not be given aspirin. Hospital treatment In severe cases of croup, treatment in hospital may be required. Breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, are a major symptom of severe croup.
You should dial immediately for an ambulance if your child is struggling to breathe. Complications of croup Complications that develop as a result of croup are rare. Airway obstruction If an obstructed airway is not treated promptly, it can lead to: severe breathing difficulty respiratory distress respiratory arrest where breathing stops but the heart continues beating Always phone for an ambulance if your child is struggling to breathe.
Secondary infection A secondary infection can sometimes develop following the initial viral infection that caused croup. A secondary infection can potentially cause: pneumonia , a chest infection which causes swelling of the tissue in one or both lungs bacterial tracheitis, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that can occur after a viral respiratory infection Other complications Although rare, other possible complications of croup can include middle ear infection and lymphadenitis, an infection of the glands of the immune system lymph nodes.
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Source: NHS 24 - Opens in new browser window. Last updated:. How can we improve this page? A croupy cough can occur with exposure to pollens or allergens in a barn. A runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing are also often present.
Inhaled Powder. Breathing in any fine substance can trigger 10 minutes of severe coughing. Examples are powdered sugar, flour dust or peanut dust. They can float into the lungs. This is not an allergic reaction. Airway Foreign Object Serious.
Suspect when there is a sudden onset of coughing and choking. Common examples are peanut and seeds. Peak age is 1 to 4 years. Offer a favorite blanket or toy. Speak in a soothing voice. If your child's symptoms persist beyond three to five days or worsen, your child's doctor may prescribe these medications:. For severe croup, your child may need to spend time in a hospital to be monitored and receive additional treatments.
Croup often runs its course within three to five days. In the meantime, keep your child comfortable with a few simple measures:. Your child's cough may improve during the day, but don't be surprised if it returns at night. You may want to sleep near your child or even in the same room so that you can take quick action if your child's symptoms become severe.
In most cases of croup, your child won't need to see a doctor. However, if your child's symptoms are severe or aren't responding to home treatment, you should call your doctor. Your child's doctor will likely ask a number of questions to help determine the best course of treatment:. Your doctor will ask additional questions based on your responses and your child's symptoms and needs.
Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your time with the doctor. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Diagnosis Croup is typically diagnosed by a doctor.
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