Croup is a common viral infection in small children. The characteristic barking, seal-like cough results from inflammation of the trachea (windpipe) just below the vocal cords. Croup usually worsens at night, lasting 3 nights before resolving on its own. Cough medications and antibiotics are not necessary or effective. To manage croup at home it may be helpful to run a cool-mist vaporizer in your child's room. Remember to wash out the vaporizer daily. If the croup continues to progress, take the child into the bathroom, close the door, and steam the bathroom up by running the hottest water you can through the showerhead. Offering your child warm liquids to drink may also help stop the coughing spasm. You may also try putting your child's face up to an open window or taking her out into the cool night air.
Call us if any of the following occur:
1. Your child is struggling for air or can't speak for lack of breath.
2. She is drooling, complains of sore throat, or refuses to swallow.
