Croup treatment: How to soothe your child’s barking cough.
A barking cough in the middle of the night can be alarming. If your child suddenly wakes up struggling to breathe or sounding like a seal, it’s likely croup. This common childhood illness can leave parents feeling worried and unsure of what to do next.
The good news? Croup is usually manageable at home; knowing the right steps can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explain what croup is, how to treat it and when to seek medical help to keep your little one safe and comfortable.
What is croup? Understanding the causes and symptoms.
Croup is an infection that inflames the upper airway, making it harder for air to pass through. This swelling leads to the hallmark barking cough and sometimes a harsh, raspy sound when breathing called stridor. It’s most common in children under five and often caused by a viral infection, like a cold or flu.
Common symptoms of croup.
- A barking cough.
- Stridor or a high-pitched sound especially when crying or coughing.
- Hoarseness.
- Fever or signs of a common cold.
The condition tends to worsen at night and improves during the day.
Effective home treatments for managing croup.
Most cases of croup can be treated at home with a few simple steps to ease your child’s breathing and keep them comfortable.
Home care tips for croup.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier. Moist air can soothe the irritated airway and reduce coughing.
- Encourage your child to drink fluids. Keeping them hydrated helps thin mucus and soothe the throat.
- Comfort your child. Crying can make symptoms worse, so keep them calm with hugs or quiet distractions.
- Take them outside for fresh air. Cool night air can often ease breathing during a croup episode.
When croup symptoms need urgent medical attention.
While most croup cases are mild, some require medical attention. If your child has a persistent, barky cough walk into your closest CityMD location for care.
CityMD urgent care can provide fast, effective care when home remedies aren’t enough. Don’t hesitate to visit us if your child’s symptoms seem severe or you’re unsure about what to do next.
Signs your child may need immediate care.
Call 911 or visit the emergency room if your child shows the following signs:
- Difficulty breathing, even while resting.
- A bluish tint around the lips or fingernails.
- High-pitched stridor that doesn’t improve with home treatments.
- Drooling or difficulty swallowing.
Croup can be scary, but with the proper care, your child will be on the mend in no time. Trust your instincts, and remember, CityMD is here when you need support.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.