CROUP
by Charles H. Deitschel, Jr., MD (Retired, QCP Pediatrician)
by Charles H. Deitschel, Jr., MD (Retired, QCP Pediatrician)
What causes croup?
The major cause of croup is para-influenza
virus. Other viruses such as adenovirus,
influenza, respiratory syncitial virus
[RSV], and even measles have been known to
cause croup. Since there are so many
causes, croup may occur many times.
When does croup occur?
Croup occurs most often around Halloween
with the first frost and continues through
the winter months. However, it can occur
any time of the year.
Who gets croup?
Usually children between six months and
seven years of age get croup. Premature
babies who have been intubated and younger
children are prone to getting croup due to
their smaller airways.
How long does croup last?
Classically, seven days.
Is croup contagious?
Yes, just like the common cold. It is
spread from person to person by airborne
droplets coughed or sneezed into the air.
The virus can be shed into the environment
three to six days before the onset of
symptoms and continues until the child is
well.
How do you treat croup?
Since a virus causes croup, antibiotics are
not indicated. In most cases, supportive
care to make the child comfortable is all
that is needed. Basically that means
"water". Water in the form of:
1. Increased fluid intake - to maintain hydration.
2. Cool mist - to keep nose and throat moist.
3. An expectorant cough syrup (i.e. Robitussin, Guiafenesin) - to change thickened secretions to water.
Other supportive measures would include: rest, elevating the head of the bed, fever and pain medication (i.e. acetaminophen or ibuprofen) and comfortable clothing.
1. Increased fluid intake - to maintain hydration.
2. Cool mist - to keep nose and throat moist.
3. An expectorant cough syrup (i.e. Robitussin, Guiafenesin) - to change thickened secretions to water.
Other supportive measures would include: rest, elevating the head of the bed, fever and pain medication (i.e. acetaminophen or ibuprofen) and comfortable clothing.
What to do if croup gets worse?
If the child suddenly awakes with a barky,
seal-like cough
or breathing becomes more aggressive, the
following care is indicated:
1. Stay calm and reassure the child
2. Take the child to the bathroom, turn on the hot shower and have the child sit in the steam filled bathroom for 20-30 minutes.
3. If the steam treatment does not help, wrap your child in a blanket and take him/her into the cool night air for 10-15 minutes.
4. If still no improvement, call your physician or take the child to the emergency room or call 911
1. Stay calm and reassure the child
2. Take the child to the bathroom, turn on the hot shower and have the child sit in the steam filled bathroom for 20-30 minutes.
3. If the steam treatment does not help, wrap your child in a blanket and take him/her into the cool night air for 10-15 minutes.
4. If still no improvement, call your physician or take the child to the emergency room or call 911
