Croup is a common problem seen in growing children. It is usually caused by a viral infection, most often a parainfluenza virus. A child may contract croup by breathing in infected respiratory droplets coughed or sneezed into the air by someone who has the illness. Croup typically occurs in younger children between 6 months and 3 years of age, and it is not usually a serious issue.
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This infection of the upper airway results in swelling around the vocal cords (larynx), windpipe (trachea) and bronchial tubes (bronchi). The swelling causes the characteristic low-pitched cough, resembling the bark of a seal. The cough is often worse at night and gets aggravated by crying as well as anxiety and agitation. The swelling also causes breathing difficulty that may produce a high-pitched whistling sound. Apart from coughing and labored breathing, it is common to have a fever and a hoarse voice. Symptoms usually last for three to five days. However, proper healing may take more time. During this time, some simple home remedies can keep your child feeling more comfortable and help prevent croup from returning. Note: If your child’s symptoms persist beyond three to five days or worsen, see a doctor immediately. Also, seek immediate medical attention if your child develops symptoms like severe breathing difficult, difficulty swallowing, rapid breathing, rasping sound when inhaling or exhaling (stridor), or dark, blue-tinged skin near the nose, mouth or fingernails.
Warm Steam
One of the best home remedies to relieve symptoms and get rid of croup is warm steam. Warm steam created from a hot shower helps alleviate congestion and make breathing a bit easier. The warmth of the moisture will also thin the mucus to make it easier to expel. 1.Run a hot shower and keep the door shut to prevent steam from escaping. 2. Sit with your baby in the steam-filled bathroom. (Do not leave your child in the bathroom alone.) 3. Allow your child to inhale the steam for at least 30 minutes. 4. Repeat as needed.
Moisten the Air
Humid air helps ease breathing, hence you need to increase the level of humidity in your home and especially where your child sleeps. Moist air can also help with congestion and lessen the intensity of coughing fits. 1. Use a humidifier wherever possible in your home and especially in the room where your child sleeps. 2. Another option is to place a bowl of hot water in the room to increase the moisture in the air. You can also place a pot of water on the radiator in your child’s room. Whether you are using a humidifier or a bowl of hot water, be sure to place it in a safe place to prevent accidents.
Prevent Dehydration
When your child is suffering from croup, you must try your best to prevent dehydration to reduce breathing problems in your child. Keeping the body hydrated is very important, as fluids can help thin excess mucus that occurs with croup or other cold and flu viruses. If your child refuses large amounts of fluids at one time, give smaller amounts more often. 1. For small babies, water, breast milk or formula is fine. 2. For older children, along with water, soup or frozen fruit pops help a lot. 3. Homemade bone broth or light soups made with bone broth are also good. 4. Apple juice, lemon juice or herbal teas also provide hydration with an added benefit of fighting the infection as well.
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