Croup

Croup is a childhood condition that affects the windpipe (trachea), the airways to the lungs (the bronchi) and the voice box (larynx).
A child with croup has a distinctive barking cough and will make a harsh sound, known as stridor, when they breathe in. 
A blocked airway can also cause a hoarse voice and breathing difficulties. 
Croup can usually be diagnosed by a GP and treated at home. However, if your child’s symptoms are severe and they are finding it difficult to breathe, take them to the nearest hospital’s accident and emergency (A&E) department. 
Read more about the symptoms of croup and diagnosing croup.

Why does croup happen?

Commonly, croup is caused by a viral infection. In 80% of cases, the parainfluenza virus is responsible.
In some cases, croup may be caused by an allergic reaction.
There are two types of croup:

• viral croup (laryngotracheitis), which develops over several days and is caused by an infection
• spasmodic croup, which involves repeated, short-lasting episodes of croup that can be caused by an allergic reaction.

The same treatments are recommended for both viral croup and spasmodic croup.

Who is affected?

Croup usually affects young children aged between six months and three years, with most cases occurring in two-year-olds. However, croup can sometimes develop in older children up to 15 years of age.
About 3 in 100 children will suffer from croup every year. The condition is more common during the late autumn and early winter months. 
It tends to affect more boys than girls.
It is occasionally possible for a child to experience croup more than once during childhood.

Treating croup

What is Croup?
 
Most cases of croup are mild and get better on their own, without the need for treatment. Sitting your child upright and comforting them if they are distressed is important, because crying may make symptoms worse. Your child should also drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
More severe cases of croup may need to be treated with steroids to reduce the swelling in the throat.
If your child has breathing problems, hospital treatment, such as adrenaline and an oxygen mask may be required.
Read more about treating croup.

Complications

Around 60% of croup cases clear up within 48 hours. However, in some cases symptoms can last for up to two weeks.
It is very rare for a child to die from croup.
There are a number of conditions that can follow croup, such as pneumonia and middle ear infection.