Croup is a viral infection that causes swelling of the upper airway and vocal cords. It can be preceded by a day or two of cold symptoms or come on suddenly in the middle of the night.
Symptoms may include:
- A “seal-bark” cough
- Hoarse voice
- A high pitched whistling sound when breathing in, called “stridor”
- Difficulty breathing
If your child wakes up in the middle of the night with croup:
- Try stepping out into the cool night air or into a bathroom with the shower running and door closed. The cool misty air will often improve the symptoms.
- Keep your child calm; agitation worsens the symptoms.
Call immediately if:
- Your child is not improved within 15 minutes of trying the above measures
- Your child is having trouble breathing
- Your child is drooling or having trouble swallowing
- Your child is difficult to arouse or not responsive