Croup in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention | Rainbow Children's Clinic

What is Croup?

Croup, also known as laryngotracheobronchitis, is caused by viral infections that lead to inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and trachea (windpipe). The swelling narrows the airways, resulting in the characteristic symptoms. Croup is most common in children between 6 months and 3 years old but can occasionally occur in older children.

The illness is typically mild but can sometimes escalate into severe breathing difficulties, requiring immediate medical care. Croup is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets.

RSV vs. Croup — What’s the Difference?

Both croup and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections are respiratory illnesses common in children, but they differ in causes and symptoms:

• Croup: Typically caused by viruses such as the parainfluenza virus. It mainly affects the upper respiratory tract, leading to a barking cough and hoarseness.
• RSV: Caused by the RSV virus, it often affects the lower respiratory tract and leads to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, and a runny nose.

While RSV can sometimes lead to croup-like symptoms, it primarily targets the lungs and bronchi, whereas croup affects the larynx and trachea.

Symptoms and Causes

Croup often begins like a common cold, but its hallmark symptoms quickly distinguish it. A loud, barking cough is one of the most recognizable signs, often worsening at night. Alongside this, hoarseness and difficulty breathing can cause distress in children. Severe cases may involve noisy breathing known as stridor.

Symptoms of Croup:

• A loud, barking cough that worsens at night.
• Hoarseness or a raspy voice.
• Stridor: A high-pitched, wheezing sound when breathing in.
• Fever (not always present).
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing in severe cases.

The primary cause of croup is a viral infection, but certain environmental factors can contribute to its onset. It is more common during the colder months and can sometimes be triggered by irritants like smoke or allergens.

Causes of Croup:

• Viral infections, especially the parainfluenza virus.
• Exposure to respiratory irritants like smoke or allergens.
• Seasonal factors, as croup is more common in fall and winter.

Diagnosis and Tests

Doctors diagnose croup primarily based on clinical symptoms and a physical examination. The distinctive barking cough and stridor are key indicators that help confirm the condition. The doctor may also listen to your child’s breathing to assess the severity of airway narrowing.

In rare cases, additional tests like X-rays or throat swabs may be used to rule out other conditions, such as epiglottitis, bacterial infections, or foreign body aspiration. These tests are typically performed if the symptoms are atypical or if the child does not respond to standard treatment.

Treatment Options for Managing Croup

Mild cases of croup can be managed at home:

Humidified Air: Using a humidifier or sitting in a steamy bathroom can ease breathing.

Fluids: Keeping your child hydrated is essential.

Comfort Measures: Calming a child can help reduce breathing difficulties, as anxiety may worsen symptoms.

For moderate to severe cases:

• Medications: Corticosteroids like dexamethasone can reduce airway swelling. Nebulized epinephrine may be given in emergency settings.
• Hospital Care: In rare, severe cases, oxygen therapy or hospitalization may be required.

Prevention

While croup cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Teach children to wash hands frequently and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
• Keep your child up-to-date with recommended vaccines, such as the flu shot.
• Minimize exposure to smoke and allergens.

Visit Rainbow Children's Clinic for Croup Treatment

If your child is experiencing symptoms of croup or any other respiratory condition, Rainbow Children's Clinic in Hadapsar, Pune, is here to help. Led by Dr. Nivedita Oswal, who has over a decade of pediatric experience, we provide personalized care with minimal medication and a child-friendly approach.

Contact us at +91 9595321123 to book your appointment today. Ensure your child’s health with expert care at Rainbow Children's Clinic.