Croup – What is it?
Croup is a disease of the throat in children
This presents as a loud noise(stridor) when the child takes a breath in.
What causes croup?
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Croup is generally seen when the child has an infection of the throat or nose.
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Most of the time this starts as cold infections with fever, running nose, cough.
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Most of these infections are caused by viruses, hence there is no active treatment for this, but just symptoms management.
Why does croup occur?
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The windpipe that carries air into the lungs, can get infected with viral infections. This causes swelling of the windpipe and narrowing.
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This cases the loud breathing noise.
What are the features of Croup
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Croup is diagnosed by seeing the behaviour of the child.
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The inspiratory breathing noise is typical, it is called as ‘STRIDOR’.
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Child may also have a typical cough that sounds like ‘BARKING’
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Along with this, the child may have other features of common cold like
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Fever/ weakness/ body pain
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Cough/ cold / running nose
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A sore throat
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Symptoms get worse at night and when child is agitated
How long does Croup last?
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Like any other viral infection, this last for as much as a week.It subsides by itself.
Is croup dangerous?
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The severity of breathing problem depends on the age of the child .
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Generally, babies less than 1 year can have severe problems, hence better to be managed by a doctor.
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Older children may manage better.
What is the treatment?
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The child is given steroids at the hospital to reduce the swelling in the windpipe.
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This is a temporary measure.
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Steroid can be given as nebulisers or syrups.
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The effect of steroids lasts a few hours, hence the breathing problem can recur again.
What are the danger signs
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Change in colour is dangerous
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Extreme weakness, difficulty breathing needs to be seen
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Fever/ fits in the child need to be seen.