Croup

What is croup?

Croup is an illness characterized by a barking cough.  The cough sounds very much like a seal bark.  The cough sounds this way because the airway near the vocal cords has become very swollen.  Sometimes this swelling is severe resulting in squeaky, labored breathing as well.  The barky cough is usually associated with a runny nose, and low-grade fever.

What causes croup?

Croup is usually caused by a virus.  The peak season is between October and April.  Occasionally asthma can present with a recurrent croupy cough.

How do you manage croup?

The symptoms of croup usually present at night.  If your child has labored or squeaky breathing (known as stridor) call your doctor right away.  The croupy cough is often relieved by having the child remain calm in a parent’s arms either in a steamy bathroom or outside in the cool night air.  If these measures are not offering relief, call your doctor.  Croup usually lasts about three nights.  The symptoms generally improve during the day.  If your child does not seem comfortable during the day, see your doctor.  Sometimes significant croup is treated with steroids.