A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

CROUP

What is Croup ?

Croup is an illness where breathing becomes difficult and produces a harsh noise. It occurs most often in children who have had a bad cold for a few days. It usually shows itself by a barking “seal like” cough and a hoarse voice. Croup can happen in children of all ages but it is most common in toddlers. The problem is usually worse at night. The commonest times of year are the autumn and winter.

How does Croup occur ?

Croup is caused by a virus, which affects the voice box or windpipe. The lining of the windpipe swells as a result of the infection. Because the windpipe is narrower in children than in adults, this causes difficulty breathing. The air passing through the narrowed windpipe makes the noise.

Why does Croup occur ?

It is an infectious illness causes by several different kinds of virus. Some children can get it several times. It is quite common, affecting almost one child in 10.

Treatment Involved for Croup

Usually treatment will be at home. The child should be comforted because crying makes the cough worse. The symptoms can sometimes be helped with humidity, sitting with the child in a kitchen or bathroom with hot water or a hot running shower. The child must be supervised carefully to prevent scalding from hot water or steam. The viruses which cause croup do not respond to antibiotics. However the doctor may decide that antibiotics are necessary because bacteria can “move in” and cause a chest infection. In more severe cases the child may need to go to hospital. Treatment with an inhaled steroid may be given, which can reduce the difficulty in breathing. The child’s breathing will be monitored and they may also be given humidity and oxygen. Very rarely the child will need to have a tube put down their throat to help breathing.

During Treatment for Croup

Most cases are mild and will settle at home in a few days. If the illness becomes more severe the child will be safer in hospital. CONTACT THE DOCTOR URGENTLY if there is a loud croupy noise even when the child is not crying; if the child is getting exhausted or floppy; if there is dribbling or the child cannot swallow; if the child is struggling to breathe or breathing very fast, or if lips or tongue go blue (this is a sign that the child is not getting enough oxygen, call for help at once)

After Treatment for Croup

The croup should settle in a few days. A few children get it quite often after colds, but all children grow out of it by about 10 years of age.

If Croup is Left Untreated

Most cases will get better without treatment. The most severe cases should be admitted to hospital. Very rarely a child with croup cannot breathe properly and needs a tube put down their windpipe. This tube will help them breathe until the croup settles.

Effects on Family of Croup

Make sure the child is calm and in a humid atmosphere. Contact the doctor if you are concerned.