Croup is a common respiratory condition in young children, usually caused by a viral infection. It leads to swelling around the vocal cords, windpipe, and bronchial tubes, causing a distinctive barking cough.

Symptoms of Croup

• Barking cough, often described as sounding like a seal
• Hoarseness or loss of voice
• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (stridor)
• Fever, usually mild
• Symptoms often worsen at night

Causes of Croup

• Most commonly caused by viruses such as parainfluenza virus
• It is contagious and spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close contact

Who Is Affected?

• Mostly affects children between 6 months and 3 years old
• Rarely affects adults

Treatment for Croup

• Most cases are mild and can be managed at home
• Use a humidifier or take the child into steamy bathroom air to soothe airway swelling
• Keep the child calm, as crying can worsen breathing difficulties
• Over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• In severe cases, medical treatment such as steroids or breathing treatments may be necessary