When your child wakes up in the middle of the night with a harsh, “barky” cough that sounds like a seal, it can be a frightening experience for any parent.  Understanding this condition is an important step for parents seeking trusted virtual pediatric care in Kansas City and Missouri. 

What is Croup?

Croup is a common viral infection that causes swelling in the airway below the voice box. It primarily affects children between 6 months and 3 years old, with cases typically peaking during the fall and winter months. While the symptoms can be dramatic, most children recover within 2 to 3 days, with the hallmark barky cough often resolving within 48 hours. 

 

Common Symptoms

• A harsh, barky cough (seal-like sound)
• A hoarse voice
• Stridor: A high-pitched, squeaky sound when inhaling
• Low-grade fever

 

Managing Croup at Home

Supportive care is key to helping your child feel better. Important steps include staying calm to comfort your child, as agitation can worsen symptoms. You can also try briefly stepping into cool outdoor air, keeping your child hydrated with frequent sips of fluids, and using a cool-mist humidifier for comfort. Elevating the head of the bed slightly may also help them breathe more easily during sleep.

 

Medical Treatment

An effective evidence-based treatment for croup is a single dose of a prescription steroid medicine called dexamethasone. This medication reduces airway swelling and typically begins working within a few hours. It is important to note that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines are generally not recommended for young children with croup.  In some more concerning cases, the physician may order an inhaled medication called racemic epinephrine to be given in the clinic or emergency department.  Racemic epinephrine is not a medication that is typically prescribed for home use.

 

When to Seek Immediate Care

While most cases are mild, you should call your doctor if you have any concerns.   Call 911 immediately if your child has stridor while sitting still, struggles to breathe (skin pulling in around ribs), has trouble swallowing, or appears pale or bluish around the lips.

 

DISCLAIMER

General Information is Not Medical Advice: The general information provided in this document is for informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or care, nor is it intended to be a substitute for such. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider concerning any medical questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.

Medical Emergency: Do NOT use this information for medical emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately.