Croup in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is croup?

It is a viral infection that inflames the larynx and trachea in young children, usually between 6 months and 3 years. It causes a very characteristic barking cough, like a dog or seal, hoarseness and sometimes a high-pitched sound when breathing in, called stridor.

Why is it worse at night?

Symptoms often appear or worsen suddenly at night, which frightens parents. Keeping the child calm and held helps, since crying increases breathing difficulty. Breathing cool air may ease symptoms a little, though warm steam has not shown benefit.

How is it treated?

Most cases are mild and improve in a few days. The doctor usually prescribes a single dose of corticosteroid that effectively reduces swelling. In moderate or severe cases, the emergency department uses specific nebulized medication and observes the child for a few hours.

When should you go to the emergency room?

If the child has stridor at rest, the neck or ribs pull in with breathing, they are very agitated or, conversely, very lethargic, drooling or unable to swallow, have blue lips or struggle to talk or cry.

Find croup specialists

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