Croup
Croup is a viral infection that causes swelling of the upper airway and vocal cords. It can be preceded by a day or two of cold symptoms or come on suddenly in the middle of the night.
Symptoms may include:
- A “seal-bark” cough
- Hoarse voice
- A high pitched whistling sound when breathing in called stridor
- Difficulty breathing
If your child wakes up in the middle of the night with croup:
- try stepping out into the cool night air or into a bathroom with the shower running and door closed. The cool misty air will often improve the symptoms.
- Keep your child calm, agitation worsens the symptoms
Call immediately if:
- Your child is not improved within 15 minutes of trying the above measures
- Your child is having trouble breathing
- Your child is drooling or having trouble swallowing
- Your child is difficult to arouse or not responsive
> Return to "Caring for Common Childhood Conditions" Glossary
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