It is a common childhood illness that causes breathing difficulties and a distinctive barking cough. Croup can be mild or severe, and usually lasts for a few days. We will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of croup in this blog post.
Causes of Croup
Voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea) inflammation is usually the cause of croup, which is caused by a viral infection. In addition to the parainfluenza virus, other viruses such as influenza, adenovirus, or respiratory syncytial virus can also cause croup, including the parainfluenza virus. As a result of coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with infected surfaces or objects, croup can spread between people. In the fall and winter, croup is more common in children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. Croup is more common in children between these ages because they have smaller airways that can easily become narrow when swollen.
Symptoms of Croup
The symptoms of croup vary depending on the severity of the infection and the degree of narrowing of the airways. There is a loud barking cough associated with croup. The cough may be worse at night or when a child is crying or agitated. Other symptoms of croup include:
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Hoarse voice
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Fever
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Runny nose
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Sore throat
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Difficulty breathing
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Noisy breathing (stridor)
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Bluish or grayish skin around the nose, mouth, or fingernails (cyanosis)
Croup usually lasts for 3 to 5 days, but some children may have a longer or recurrent course of illness. Complications of croup can include dehydration, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.
Diagnosis of Croup
Symptoms of croup are diagnosed using the child's medical history and physical examination. The doctor will ask about the onset, duration, frequency, and severity of the cough and other symptoms, as well as the possibility of exposure to other sick people or environmental triggers. In addition to listening to the child's breathing, the doctor will also check for signs of inflammation or infection in the throat and chest. To rule out other causes of coughing and breathing problems, the doctor may order some tests.
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A chest X-ray looks for abnormalities in the lungs or ribs.
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An infection or inflammation in the body can be detected through blood tests.
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In order to identify the type of virus that causes croup, a throat swab is performed.
Treatment of Croup
There are many different treatments for croup, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the risk of complications. Most cases of croup can be treated at home using simple measures such as:
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Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and soothe your throat.
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Taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as directed by your doctor) to reduce fever and pain.
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To ease breathing, use a cool mist humidifier or a steamed bathroom.
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Reducing airway swelling by taking the child outside into cool, moist night air.
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Avoiding crying or agitation which can worsen breathing by keeping the child calm and comfortable.
Croup may require medical attention and medication to reduce inflammation and open up the airway. The doctor may prescribe:
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In order to reduce swelling and improve breathing, oral corticosteroids such as dexamethasone or prednisolone can be taken.
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In severe cases, epinephrine (adrenaline) is nebulized to constrict blood vessels and decrease airway edema.
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If bacterial infections are present, antibiotics are used to treat them.
Children with severe croup may need hospitalization and oxygen therapy to recover.
Prevention of Croup
Croup cannot be prevented specifically, but some general measures can reduce its risk or severity, including:
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Avoiding contact with sick people or contaminated surfaces or objects by washing hands frequently.
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Vaccinating against influenza and other respiratory viruses that can cause croup.
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Keeping the airways clear by avoiding smoking, secondhand smoke, and other irritants.
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Children with persistent or severe coughs or breathing problems should seek medical attention.
