Croup - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Croup Definition

A pathological condition of the larynx, especially in infants and children. Croup may be characterized by respiratory difficulty and a hoarse, brassy cough. The portions of hard wheat kernels not ground into flour by the millstones: a kind of semolina prepared in Russia and used for puddings, soups- called also manna groats.

Croup is a childhood disease affecting boys more often than girls and it is usually occurs during the winter.

Croup is also known as Viral croup, Laryngotracheobronchitis - acute, and Spasmodic croup.

Croup Causes

The infection causes swelling of the larynx and impairs air passage. Viral croup is the most common in case of croup. Other possible causes include bacteria, allergies, and inhaled irritants. Acid reflux from the stomach can trigger croup. The infection may also be spread byinfected mucus deposited on doors, furniture, toys, and otherobjects. Croup may be occur at any time of the year. Croup is most often caused by a virus, less often by a bacteria.

Croup is usually caused by parainfluenza viruses, but RSV, measles, adenovirus, andinfluenzacan all cause croup. Croup may last up to a week. Each night tends to be better than the last. Croup is an infectious illness of the respiratory system involving the larynx, trachea, and the airways leading to the lungs.

Croup Symptoms

A hacking croupy cough develops which sounds likea barking seal and becomes worse at night. Croup features a cough that sounds like a seal barking. Croup is often mild, and children recover quickly.

Most children have what appears to be a mild cold for several days before the barking cough becomes evident. Croup symptoms often get worse at night, particularly the cough and breathing difficulties.

In serious cases of croup, the upper airway may become so swollen that it is very difficult for the child to breathe.

The other symptoms of the croup may be included:

• harsh barking cough
• stridor
• loud cough
• raspy
• hoarse voice
• slight fever
• difficulty breathing

Croup Treatments

Adrenaline may be given in cases of severe croup, either via nebulizer or injected intramuscularly.

Croup may also be treated with home therapy. Home therapy usually consists of a mist treatment -- a cool air nebulizer is best.

In case of Croup, Make sure the child avoids smoky environments.

Most cases of croup may be safely managed at home, but call your health care provider for guidance.