Croup

Cause:
Croup is often caused by a viral infection.
The classic sign is a loud, harsh, barking cough usually worse at night.

Fever and a hoarse voice are also common.

Things to do at home:

• Moisten the air by using a cool-air humidifier or have your child breathe the warm, moist air in a steamy bathroom.
• If cool outside, dress your child warmly and take them outside to breathe the cold air or open the refrigerator freezer and let them breathe the cold air.
• Hold child in an upright position and have them sleep with the head of their bed elevated.

When to make an appointment:

• Struggling to breathe
• Fever of 103.5 or higher
• If child is making noisy, high pitched sounds when breathing in (stridor)
• If child begins drooling or has trouble swallowing