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Croup
Overview:
Croup, which is marked by a harsh, repetitive cough similar to the noise of a seal barking, can be scary for both children and their parents. After all, attacks of croup may jar your children awake at night and leave them gasping for breath.
Signs and Symptoms:
The classic sign of croup is a loud, harsh, barking cough — which often comes in bursts at night. Your child's breathing may be labored or noisy. Fever and a hoarse voice are common, too.
Causes and Organs Affected:
Croup is often caused by the parainfluenza virus. Less often, respiratory syncytial virus or various other respiratory viruses cause croup.
Your child may contract a virus by breathing infected respiratory droplets coughed or sneezed into the air. Virus particles in these droplets may also survive on toys and other surfaces. If your child touches a contaminated surface and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth, an infection may follow.
Risk Factor:
Croup is most common in children age 5 and younger — particularly those who were born prematurely. Because of their smaller airways, signs and symptoms are typically most severe in children age 3 and younger.
Treatment:
In most cases, self-care measures at home — such as breathing moist air and drinking fluids — can speed your child's recovery. More aggressive treatment is rarely needed.
If your child's symptoms persist or worsen, his or her doctor may prescribe corticosteroids, epinephrine or another medication to open the airways. Antibiotics are effective only if your child has a bacterial infection.
For severe croup, your child may need to spend time in a hospital receiving humidified oxygen. Rarely, a temporary breathing tube may need to be placed in a child's windpipe.
Croup can be scary — especially if it lands your child in the doctor's office, hospital or emergency room. Hold your child, sing lullabies or read quiet stories. Offer a favorite blanket or toy. Speak in a soothing voice. Your presence can help keep your child calm.
Other Information:
Croup often runs its course within three to seven days. In the meantime, keep your child comfortable with a few simple measures. Stay calm, Moisten the air, Get cool, Hold your child in an upright position, Offer fluids, Encourage your child to rest and Try an over-the-counter pain reliever.