Croup

Croup is a viral infection that causes swelling of the upper airway and vocal cords.  It can be preceded by a day or two of cold symptoms or come on suddenly in the middle of the night.

Symptoms may include:

• A “seal-bark” cough
• Hoarse voice
• A high pitched whistling sound when breathing in called stridor
• Difficulty breathing

If your child wakes up in the middle of the night with croup:

• try stepping out into the cool night air or into a bathroom with the shower running and door closed.  The cool misty air will often improve the symptoms.
• Keep your child calm, agitation worsens the symptoms

Call immediately if:

• Your child is not improved within 15 minutes of trying the above measures
• Your child is having trouble breathing
• Your child is drooling or having trouble swallowing
• Your child is difficult to arouse or not responsive