Overview Of Croup
In most cases, when a child is diagnosed with having croup, they often had a cold first. This cold could have involved a slight temperature, cough, and runny nose. Then the child has a cough that is almost like a bark and they have trouble breathing. These symptoms can last for several hours and reappear for several days after the first time.
Symptoms of Croup
The symptoms that most children show are:
- Hoarse voice
- A cough that is harsh and barking
- Noisy breathing
- Difficulty with breathing
Getting Medical Attention
When a child starts to show these symptoms, they are going to need to be seen by their doctor as soon as possible. This can cause a child to stop breathing, thus, it is essential that help is received. The symptoms of this issue can also be the symptoms of other serious diseases, so these need to be ruled out as well. You should make an appointment to see your doctor if:
- High fever
- Child does not feel well
- Breathing is not normal
- Swallowing is becoming hard
- Starts to cough suddenly
- Noises are made when breathing
- The lips have a bluish tint to them
Treating Croup at Home
A mild case of the croup that does not involve a lot of breathing problems and noisy breathing can be treated at home. Here are a few suggestions:
- Comfort the child, as they may be scared when the coughing makes them feel as though they cannot breathe.
- Ensure that the child is drinking enough to stay hydrated, but also to ensure that swallowing is not being affected
- Give over the counter medications for pain according to what your doctor has recommended for fever or pain
- Utilize moisture in the air to help with breathing, though this is not proven, many parents do believe that this helps.
Always remember:
- Croup is a viral infection that can cause a child to have severe issues such as breathing issues, and a harsh, barking cough
- This is going to start as a cold and can become greatly worse at night.
Visiting Your GP
About 5 percent of kids seen in the hospital for croup need to be hospitalized. You should acquire instant medical assistance if your kid:
- Makes loud, sharp breathing noises both when breathing in and exhaling
- Begins salivating or has trouble swallowing
- Appears worried and restless or exhausted and lethargic
- Breathes at a quicker speed than normal
- Has trouble breathing
- Has blue or discolored coating around the mouth, nose or fingernails.
Related Video On Croup
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPgCxPyeTkk