Croup
Laryngotracheitis, known as croup, is a common, viral infection that affects the larynx (voice box) and the trachea (windpipe).
The main symptom of croup is a barking cough, usually accompanied by a rasping sound when your baby breathes in. Other signs of croup are a hoarse voice and respiratory problems caused by obstruction of the upper airways. Additional symptoms include:
Seek medical help as soon as you can - your doctor might give your baby a dose of steroid to reduce the swelling of the airways and suggest treatments to relieve the symptoms, such as infant paracetamol.
Keep your baby hydrated by breastfeeding more often – if your baby is taking solids, offer warm soup.
Don’t give your baby cough medicine or decongestants as they won’t treat croup.
The main symptom of croup is a barking cough, usually accompanied by a rasping sound when your baby breathes in. Other signs of croup are a hoarse voice and respiratory problems caused by obstruction of the upper airways. Additional symptoms include:
- runny nose
- sore throat
- fever (temperature of 38C or higher).
Treatment of croup
Although it’s scary for parents to hear their baby cough in such a harsh way, it usually sounds worse than it is. Your baby might go to sleep with a light cold and wake up in the early hours with the unmistakable barking cough – croup tends to occur at night time.Seek medical help as soon as you can - your doctor might give your baby a dose of steroid to reduce the swelling of the airways and suggest treatments to relieve the symptoms, such as infant paracetamol.
Keep your baby hydrated by breastfeeding more often – if your baby is taking solids, offer warm soup.
Don’t give your baby cough medicine or decongestants as they won’t treat croup.
What if my baby gets worse?
In rare cases, a baby might experience serious breathing difficulties. Call an ambulance or go straight to your local accident and emergency unit if your baby:- is struggling to breathe
- makes a very loud, high-pitched rasping sound when breathing
- suddenly gets very sleepy or lethargic
- has a blue tinge on his/her lips and face
- seems to have a drawn-in neck and ribcage.
- looks pale
- has a rapid heartbeat
- has a fever of 39C or higher
- makes a rasping sound accompanied with drooling.
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