Croup is a common cause of breathing problems in kids. In this article, we aim to address all your questions about croup. We will talk about the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and how you can prevent your children from getting croup.
At After Hours Kids, we understand that breathing problems in children can be very worrisome. Feel free to contact our team of pediatricians in Austin, Texas if you have any concerns.
Croup is caused by a respiratory viral infection. It gets into the airways of the throat and causes it to swell. Croup is generally identified by a “barking” cough that some liken to a seal’s bark. Your child may also have a hoarse voice and a high-pitched squeak when they breathe.
Most cases of croup are caused by a virus. The viruses that could cause croup include the Influenza virus, Parainfluenza virus, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Adenovirus, and Enteroviruses.
The viral infection gets into the voice box (larynx) and windpipe and causes it to become irritated and swell. This is the cause of the hoarse voice or the barking cough that is common with croup. If the swelling in the airway continues, your child may begin to make a high-pitched whistling sound when they breathe.
Another possible cause of Croup is an allergic reaction or stomach reflux. This is called spasmodic croup.
Croup is most common in younger children, particularly those between 6 months and 3 years old. Your child is more likely to get croup during the autumn months.
Yes, croup is contagious. The viruses that cause croup easily spread from one person to another. Respiratory viruses spread through droplets when coughing or sneezing. If your child touches an infected surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth, then they will likely be infected.
Common croup symptoms include the following:
You should carefully watch your child’s symptoms to see how they develop. Severe symptoms, such as bluish or pale lips, could indicate that they are not getting enough oxygen. Sleep near your child or in the same room so that you can periodically observe their symptoms. Their symptoms will be worse at night.
Most children do not need medical treatment for croup. There is a higher risk, though, for those who were born early and have asthma or another lung disease.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if your child exhibits the following symptoms:
Croup is often identified by the telltale symptoms of the barking cough and stridor. Your child’s provider will ask you if your child has recently had a fever, congestion, or runny nose. They will also want to know if there is any history of croup or any other airway problems.
In cases of severe croup, your child’s provider may request an X-ray to look for the narrowing of the airway, called the “steeple’ sign.
Home treatments are usually sufficient for children with mild croup. The condition usually clears up in 3 to 7 days.
Croup treatment at home may include the following:
In severe cases, your child may require breathing treatment at the hospital or a steroid shot to reduce swelling.
As a respiratory virus often causes croup, prevention is the same as preventing a common cold. You can help reduce the spread of croup by encouraging your child to:
Although there is no vaccine against the common cold, vaccines against the more serious upper airway infections should be taken. This would include vaccines against diphtheria and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib).
If you’re worried about your child’s breathing, contact us at After Hours Kids. Our team in Austin, TX is available on evenings and weekends to address severe cases of croup. Book your child’s appointment now!
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