Overview
Croup usually affects children between six months and three years old. It is often mild and gets better within a few days, but it can sometimes cause breathing difficulty.
Symptoms
- A barking, seal-like cough
- Hoarse voice
- A harsh, high-pitched noise when breathing in (stridor)
- Cold-like symptoms and fever
- Symptoms often worse at night
Causes and risk factors
It is usually caused by viruses, especially the parainfluenza virus.
Diagnosis
A doctor diagnoses croup from the symptoms and examination.
Treatment
Most children improve at home with comfort and fluids. A single dose of steroid medicine reduces swelling. Severe cases may need nebulised medicine and observation in hospital.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your child has croup symptoms. Seek emergency care if the child is struggling to breathe, has noisy breathing at rest, is drowsy, drooling or turning blue.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
