Croup (Croup) is a common upper respiratory tract infection in young children, especially between the ages of 6 months to 5 years. The main cause is viral infection, leading to inflammation of the throat, larynx, and bronchi, resulting in children having a barking cough, difficulty breathing, and hoarseness, which are characteristic symptoms of this disease.
Causes of Croup are due to viral infections. Common viruses include
- Parainfluenza virus (most common)
- Influenza virus (flu)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- Adenovirus
These viruses can spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or contact with mucus and phlegm from infected individuals.
Symptoms of Croup
Children with croup will initially have symptoms similar to a common cold, then start to show specific symptoms such as
- Barking cough
- Wheezing or harsh breathing sounds, especially when inhaling
- Hoarseness
- Low to moderate fever
- Difficulty breathing, chest retractions, or flaring nostrils
- Symptoms often worsen at night
If symptoms are severe, the child may have bluish discoloration around the mouth or extremities and become lethargic.
Diagnosis of Croup
Doctors can diagnose croup by taking a history and physical examination, listening to the cough and breathing sounds. In cases where complications are suspected or symptoms are unclear, additional X-ray imaging may be considered.
Treatment of Croup
Most cases of croup resolve on their own within 3–5 days with proper home care, including
- Keep the child in a humid room or use warm steam inhalation
- Encourage plenty of fluids (preferably sipping warm water frequently) to prevent dehydration
- Give fever-reducing medication such as paracetamol if fever is present
- Ensure adequate rest
If breathing difficulty occurs, doctors may consider additional treatments such as
- Steroids, either by injection or nebulized, to reduce airway inflammation
- Adrenaline nebulization to reduce airway swelling
When to Take the Child to the Doctor Immediately
Parents should take their child to see a doctor immediately if any of the following symptoms occur
- Clear difficulty breathing or wheezing even at rest
- Rapid breathing, pale or bluish discoloration around the lips
- High fever, lethargy, refusal to eat or drink
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days or rapidly worsening symptoms
How to Prevent Croup in Children
- Frequently wash hands and wear masks
- Avoid taking children to crowded places such as shopping malls and children’s cafes
- Do not let children share personal items such as cups and handkerchiefs
- Ensure children get enough rest and nutritious food
- Consider influenza or RSV vaccination as recommended by a doctor
Croup is a common respiratory infection in children that is usually not severe. With proper care, symptoms improve within a few days. However, parents should closely monitor symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if the child shows abnormal signs to prevent possible complications.
Dr. Rujira Mongkolkul
Pediatric Respiratory Specialist, Phyathai 2 Hospital
