What's Croup?
Croup, a viral infection of your voice box (voicebox), windpipe (trachea) and bronchis (airways), is most commonly found in children aged 3 to 5. Croup can cause a loud, persistent, or barking cough that makes it hard to breath and hoarseness. It can last for up to 10 days before it goes away.
Croup virus is contagious. It spreads via droplets of airborne viruses when infected people cough or sneeze. Croup occurs most often in the winter months and early spring, when outbreaks are more common.
Common Croup Causes
Croup is most commonly caused by viruses such as influenza, parainfluenza and respiratory syncytialvirus (RSV). Others less frequently causing croup include bacteria and fungi as well as environmental irritants like smoke or cold air.
Croup may be caused by Asthma or Allergies . Croup is most commonly caused by close contact with the person who has it, being at school or daycare, or living in an environment that's cluttered.
Croup Common Treatments
Croup treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are. Some mild cases can be treated at home with supportive care, but more serious cases will require medical attention. Croup can be treated with the following:
- Steam inhalation Inhaling steam from a hot shower or humidifier can reduce inflammation and make it easier for you to inhale.
- Medicines: Prednisone and Corticosteroids are often prescribed for swelling of the airways. If a bacterial infection has been suspected, Antibiotics can be prescribed.
- Hospitalization Sometimes, in rare instances, hospitalization is necessary to administer intravenous fluids and supplemental oxygen.
Croup treatment is generally effective at relieving symptoms and allowing infection to resolve. Some children might experience repeated episodes or persistent wheezing following an episode of croup. This group may be eligible for further treatment and evaluation.
Croup Experts and Professionals' Opinions
Croup, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics is the leading reason for children visiting emergency departments. Croup-like symptoms in children should be treated immediately by a physician, particularly if the child is having trouble breathing.
A University of Michigan pediatrician, Dr. David Bergman advises parents that their child seek emergency medical care if they experience severe symptoms or a prolonged period of time. To manage discomfort and fever, he recommends steam inhalation as well as over-the-counter medication, like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen .
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta pediatrician Dr. Jennifer Shu stresses the importance of prevention. Avoid contact with upper respiratory infection patients and wash your hands often.
Croup Tips and Natural Remedies
There are no known natural cures for croup. However, parents can help their children feel better and be more at ease. They include:
- Offer extra fluids to your child Drink plenty of water, juice or broth to help with their cough and keep them hydrated.
- To soothe your child's throat and decrease inflammation, humidify the room with a cool mist humidifier.
- Lift their heads: Providing pillows and blankets to support your child's head can make breathing easier.
- Keep calm. A serene and uncluttered environment will reduce Anxiety , and help your child relax.
Important to remember that natural remedies are not meant to replace the need for medical attention. Seek medical attention immediately if your child has severe symptoms or persistent problems.
Conclusion
Croup, which is a virus that infects the larynx and trachea and causes difficulty breathing and a loud, persistent cough, can be caused by viruses such as RSV, parainfluenza, and influenza. Parainfluenza and RSV are the most common viruses. These Infections can be treated by steam inhalation and Medications . In some instances, hospitalization is necessary. Experts advise that children with symptoms resembling croup seek immediate medical attention. They should also take preventive steps such as hand washing and not coming in contact with anyone with upper respiratory infections.
Croup is not a treatable condition. However, extra fluids can be given, the environment humidified, your child's head elevated, calmness and calming techniques may help. Croup can be treated with home remedies and medical attention.