Croup disease: drugs, symptoms, causes etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is croup?

Laryngotracheobronchitis or croup is a respiratory infection that often occurs in children. This disease occurs when the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and bronchi (airways to the lungs) are irritated and swollen, which can cause a severe cough.

How common is croup?

Croup is a disease that usually affects children between the ages of six months and three years. However, this disease can sometimes occur in infants as young as three months and children over 15 years. This condition can be prevented by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of croup?

Croup has many signs and symptoms. However, a characteristic symptom of croup is a cough that sounds like wheezing. Wheezing is a breath sound that is similar to a high pitched whistle likegiggle.

Other symptoms of croup are:

Sore throat
Cold
Fever
Hoarseness
Rapid breathing or shortness of breath

These symptoms get worse when the child lies down. Often the symptoms of croup are also worse at night.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should seek medical attention immediately if your child:

Noisy breath sound, that is, high pitched both on inhaling and exhaling
Often drool and have difficulty swallowing
Looks worried, restless, or tired
Breathing faster than usual or having trouble breathing
Have blue-gray skin around the nose, mouth, or nails (cyanosis)

Cause

What causes croup?

Croup is most often caused by viruses, such as RSV parainfluenza, measles, adenovirus, and influenza. Your child may be exposed to the virus through contaminated air from coughing or droplets and then inhaling it. The virus particles in these droplets may also linger on toys and other surfaces.

In addition, if your child touches a contaminated surface and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth, infection can develop. Croup can also be caused by allergies, inhaling something that irritates your airways, and high stomach acid.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for croup?

Some things that can increase a child's risk of developing croup are:

6 months to 3 years old. The peak susceptibility to this condition is at 18 to 24 months of age
Children with weakened immune systems or parents who have asthma increase the risk of bronchial laryngitis

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for croup?

Most croup cases can be treated at home. Your child must drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

However, if your child's symptoms last more than three to five days or get worse, your pediatrician may prescribe a steroid type medication (glucocorticoids) to reduce inflammation in the airways. If your child has breathing problems they may need to be hospitalized, such as treatment with the use of adrenaline and oxygen through a mask.

What are the usual tests for croup?

The doctor makes a diagnosis based on medical history and physical examination. X-rays of the neck and lungs of children can be used. X-rays can show neck swelling and if there is something trapped such as pus or blood in the respiratory tract causing symptoms. Blood tests may be done if the doctor suspects an infection caused by bacteria.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat croup?

Some of the lifestyle changes and home remedies that may help you deal with croup are:

Tell your children to wash their hands frequently after each activity, this is the best way to stop the spread of infection
Give your children the medicine prescribed by the doctor

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.