What Is Croup? Causes It?

Croup is a respiratory infection that affects the trachea and larynx, causing swelling and narrowing of the airways. It is most common in children between 6 months and 3 years of age.

Causes

Croup is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the parainfluenza virus, influenza virus, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In rare cases, it can be caused by a bacterial infection, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing croup, including:

* Being a child between 6 months and 3 years of age

* Having a history of croup

* Exposure to secondhand smoke

* Having a weakened immune system

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of croup include:

* A barking cough

* Hoarseness

* Stridor (a high-pitched sound when breathing in)

* Difficulty breathing

* Fever

* Runny nose

* Sore throat

Diagnosis

Croup is diagnosed based on the child's symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, the doctor may order a chest X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for croup is aimed at relieving the symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment may include:

* Humidified air

* Cool mist

* Over-the-counter pain relievers

* Steroids

* Antibiotics (if the infection is bacterial)

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent croup, but there are some things you can do to reduce your child's risk, including:

* Avoiding contact with people who are sick

* Washing your hands frequently

* Keeping your child up-to-date on their vaccinations

* Not smoking around your child

When to Call the Doctor

Call the doctor if your child has any of the following symptoms:

* Difficulty breathing

* Stridor

* Fever over 104 degrees Fahrenheit

* Lethargy

* Vomiting