Croup is a viral infection of the vocal cords, voice box (larynx), and windpipe (trachea).
There is a distinctive tight low-pitched barking cough with hoarseness due to swelling of the vocal cords.. A harsh, raspy vibrating sound (stridor) is heard when your child breathes in, usually only with crying or coughing. Symptoms usually last 5 to 6 days and generally get worse at night. The viruses that cause croup are very contagious until the fever is gone or until 3 days into the illness. Recommendations include:
First Aid:
Warm, moist air seems to relax the vocal cords. If your child develops stridor or tight breathing, steam up the bathroom and take him/her into the humidified bathroom for at least 10 minutes. Allay fears by cuddling, as stress can exacerbate symptoms. Use a cool mist humidifier, running 24hours/day during this illness.
Medications:
Meds are less helpful than either mist or warm fluids. Encourage fluids, such as warm apple juice or herbal tea. You may try an expectorant as needed for a persistent cough, and older children can take cough drops as needed. You may treat fever< 100.5 with Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen) as needed.
Warnings:
Call immediately if:
- breathing becomes difficult (when your child is not coughing)
- your child develops drooling, spitting, or great difficulty swallowing
- you note retractions (tugging-in) between the ribs
- warm air fails to clear up stridor in 20 minutes or your child becomes very sick
Pediatric Specialists of Plano
(972) 473-7777
