Family Casebook

Aug 24 2008 Dr Gareth Smith

Croup

LAST week I began to look at illnesses children often pick up in the playground.

This week I'm focusing on croup - a viral infection that is common during autumn.

It is caused by the same virus that leads to the cold and symptoms include a build-up of mucus and swelling just below the vocal cords.

This causes the condition's characteristic cough, which sounds like a seal barking.

Sometimes a musical wheeze occurs when breathing in. This is called stridor.

It can sound very alarming and the infection can range from very mild to severe, with the child having difficulty breathing.

Treatment for croup is usually symptomatic.

Sitting in a steamy bathroom often helps clear the airways, while Calpol reduces a temperature.

If your child has the stridor wheeze when they are sleeping or sitting still, you should have them examined at the hospital because they may not be getting enough oxygen.

After a few days, the symptoms should resemble a normal cold and the child will soon get better.