Croup

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Croup

Laryngotracheobronchitis
Viral Croup
Pediatric Stridor
Upper Airway Infection with Barking Cough

Synopsis of Croup

Croup is a common viral respiratory illness that affects young children, typically between 6 months and 5 years old. It causes swelling in the upper airway, particularly around the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and bronchi, leading to a distinctive barking cough, hoarseness, and often stridor — a high-pitched, wheezing sound when inhaling.

The most common cause of croup is parainfluenza virus, but other viruses like influenza, RSV, adenovirus, and even COVID-19 can trigger similar symptoms. Croup is typically mild and self-limiting, but in some cases, it can cause significant breathing difficulties and require emergency care.

Symptoms tend to worsen at night and often peak 2–3 days after onset, then gradually improve over a week.

Types of Croup:

  • Viral Croup (most common): Caused by respiratory viruses, usually in fall/winter.

  • Spasmodic Croup: Sudden onset at night without fever, often recurring.

  • Bacterial Tracheitis (rare): Can mimic croup but is more serious and needs antibiotics.

Common Causes:

  • Parainfluenza virus (main cause)

  • Influenza virus

  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

  • Adenovirus

  • SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

  • Allergic or environmental triggers (in spasmodic croup)

Severity Factors:

  • Children under 3 years are more vulnerable due to narrower airways

  • Stridor at rest, labored breathing, and retractions (chest pulling in with breaths) indicate moderate to severe cases

  • Recurrence more common in children with allergies or asthma

When to See a Doctor:

  • Stridor (noisy breathing) occurs even when resting

  • Difficulty breathing, retractions, or nasal flaring

  • Pale or bluish lips or skin (low oxygen)

  • High fever or symptoms persisting beyond 5–7 days

  • Lethargy, refusal to drink fluids, or signs of dehydration

  • Symptoms worsen despite home care

Natural remedies for Croup

Cool mist humidifier: Helps reduce airway swelling and ease breathing

Steam therapy: Sit in a steamy bathroom for 10–15 minutes to loosen airway constriction

Hydration: Encourage frequent small sips of fluids to soothe throat and prevent dehydration

Calming the child: Crying worsens airway swelling; keep the child calm and comforted

Night air exposure: Brief exposure to cool outdoor air can relieve swelling in some cases

Elevate the head while sleeping: Promotes easier breathing