BANGALORE: Croup is a condition that causes an inflammation of the upper airways — the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea). It often leads to a barking cough or hoarseness.
Known causes
Most cases of croup are caused by viruses.
Those involved are usually parainfluenza virus (which accounts for most cases), adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Croup is most common — and symptoms are most severe — in children from 6 months to 3 years old, but can affect older kids, too.
Most cases of viral croup are mild and can be treated at home, though rarely it can be severe and even life-threatening.
The term spasmodic croup refers to a type of croup that develops quickly and may happen in a child with a mild cold. The barking cough usually begins at night and is not accompanied by fever. Spasmodic croup has a tendency to recur.
Identify it
At first, one may have cold symptoms, like a stuffy or runny nose and a fever.
As the upper airway (the lining of the windpipe and the voice box) becomes progressively inflamed and swollen, the child may become hoarse, with a harsh, barking cough. This loud cough, which is characteristic of croup, often sounds like the barking of a seal.
If the upper airway becomes increasingly swollen, it becomes even more difficult to breathe, and you may hear a high-pitched or squeaking noise when one inhales (this is called stridor). The patient may tend to breathe fast and might have retractions. In the most serious cases, a child may appear pale or have a bluish tinge around the mouth due to a lack of oxygen.
Symptoms of croup are often worse at night. Besides the effects on the upper airway, the viruses that cause croup can cause inflammation farther down the airway and affect the bronchi.
Prevention
Frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with people who have respiratory infections reduce the chance of spreading the viruses that cause croup.
Treatment
Most, though not all, cases of viral croup are mild. Breathing in moist air seems to make one feel better. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can make one feel more comfortable. Doctors will also sometimes treat with steroids, which help with the airway swelling. The best way to be exposed to moist air is to use a cool mist humidifier, or running a hot shower to create a steam-filled bathroom where you can sit for 10 minutes.
Medical professionals will need to evaluate if the croup appears serious or if there’s any suspicion of airway blockage.
In a severe case, doctors will give a breathing treatment that contains epinephrine (adrenalin). This reduces swelling in the airway. Oxygen may also be given. As with most illnesses, rest and plenty of fluids are recommended.
