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Croup is a swelling of the voice box and windpipe. Croup can be caused by bacteria, or inhaled irritants, allergy, but
more often it's the result of a virus and as such is contagious. Croup is most common in children between the ages of 6 months
to 3 years, although a child can get croup at any age. The illness shows up most frequently between the months of October
and March. Most cases of croup today are not serious, but a severe case can require hospitalization.
Symptoms
- A very hoarse, deep cough that sounds like a barking seal, this cough is very distinctive once your hear it you will know
if you hear it again and any G.P. will pick it up just by listening to the bark
- It often appears after several days of cold symptoms and usually worsens at night.
- they may also run a low fever
- it is often worst the first two or three nights, and it usually goes away in a week or so.
It is best to have your child checked out if you feel that they may have croup
Warning
if you child’s breathing is difficult or there is a change in the colour of your child’s lips
to a bluish colour then it is best to get your child to hospital immediately.
Treatment
If your child has a mild case of croup the doctor will give you
advice as to how to alleviate the symptoms and possibly medication to help reduce the swelling. You must make every effort
to keep your child hydrated so get as much fluid into them as you can. You can give children painkillers to help reduce the
temperature but always check that they are suitable for your child. It may help if you take the child into a steamy bathroom
for 20 min, this will help to open the air ways. If your toddler has a severe case of croup that requires hospitalization,
they may be given oxygen, a medication to inhale, or steroids to help reduce the swelling of the airways. They will probably
be given intravenous fluids to combat dehydration.
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Disclaimer
All content within Childhood illnesses is provided for general information only, and should not be
treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Tiny Little monster
is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. Tiny Little Monster or Lavenmedia
are not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service
mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your or your childs
health.
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