Croup

What is croup?

Croup, also known as laryngotracheitis, is an infection of the voice box (larynx) and airway to the lungs. It is characterized by a loud, barking cough not unlike the sound made by a seal. There is also normally a rasping sound when the infected person breathes in.

It mostly affects children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. It is rare in children under 6 months, though it can occur in children older that 3. It is also possible to get croup more than once.

Symptoms of croup

The most obvious symptom is the distinctive cough. Other symptoms are similar to those found in a common cold, such as a runny nose and fever.

Additionally, there may be the rasping sound created when the child breathes in - this is called inspiratory stridor. It is most likely to be heard when the child cries or coughs, but it can also be heard when the child is asleep or resting.

Both symptoms are more likely to occur at night. Typically they will last for around 48 hours, after which they should improve and go away.

Note that if you find that your child is having difficulty breathing, or is very sleepy, or has a blue tinge around the face or lips, then you should seek medical attention immediately.

Other complications, such as high fever, pale skin or rapid heartbeat also require urgent medical attention.

How is it spread

Croup is caused by infection by various viruses, including the flu virus, or more rarely by a bacterial infection. This is the reason why a child can have croup more than once. It is passed from child to child through coughing.

The coughing symptom is a result of the fact that younger children's airways are smaller than those of older children and adults, so become obstructed more easily when infected.

Prevention and treatment

It is generally very difficult to prevent the infections that cause croup. General good hygiene practices by children at school and nursery can help reduce the rate of infection, but as it is a general symptom of infection by different agents there is no vaccine as such for croup.

Croup is a short term condition that will normally get better without the need for intervention. However, it can be distressing for both the child and its carer, and can cause discomfort and affect sleep patterns.

If the child is distressed, they should sit up and be comforted, as crying and being upset may worsen the symptoms. If they have a temperature, paracetamol-based medicines may help.

Do not give your child any medicines that make them sleepy or drowsy. Being alert will help their breathing. The child should be given plenty of fluids to help them stay hydrated.

Cough medicines are of no use in treating croup.

This article was published on Wed 4 November 2009