Croup is an infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract that usually affects the larynx, trachea and bronchi. It most often occurs in children aged 6 months to 3 years, but can occur in older children.
Why does croup occur?
Croup is caused by a virus, usually a parainfectious virus, mainly parainfluenza virus type 1, less commonly types 2 or 3. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, spreading viral particles into the environment. Other children or adults can become infected by breathing in these virus particles.
However, not all children who contract the virus develop croup. There are several factors that may increase the risk of developing croup in children:
- age. Croup most often affects children between 6 months and 3 years of age, although it can occur in older children. This is due to slightly narrower airways and a less developed immune system in young children;
- insufficient vaccination. Vaccination against parainfluenza virus may help reduce the risk of croup in children. Lack or insufficient vaccination may make children more vulnerable to the virus;
- contaminated air. High levels of air pollution can increase the risk of croup in children. Airborne pollutants can irritate and inflame the upper respiratory tract, making it more susceptible to viral infection;
- contact with infected people. Close contact with an infected child, especially without proper precautions, can increase the risk of infection and development of croup.
It is important to note that each child is different, and the presence of these factors does not guarantee the development of a croup. The development of the disease depends on the interaction between the virus and the child’s immune system.
What are the symptoms of croup?
Symptoms of croup can vary depending on the severity of the illness, but here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of croup:
- stage of runny nose and nasal congestion. Croup begins like a common cold with a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. The child may also experience weakness and a slight fever;
- characteristic cough. One of the most characteristic symptoms of croup is a hoarse, hoarse cough, similar to a dog barking or the sound of a goose. The cough may be particularly loud and intense during attacks and may be worse at night or in the early morning hours;
- shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. During an attack of croup, the child may experience difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. Breathing may become faster and shallower, and the child may use accessory muscles to inhale;
- voice change. A child’s voice may become hoarse or deep due to inflammation of the larynx and vocal cords.
- string sounds. During an attack of croup, the child may make strange sounds when breathing, known as “string rice.” This is due to a narrowing of the airways and is associated with difficult passage of air.
The child may be restless, irritable and anxious due to the difficulty breathing and discomfort caused by croup. If your child experiences these symptoms, especially if they get worse or become alarming, it is recommended that you see a doctor or pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
How to stop an attack of croup?
If your child has an episode of croup, the following steps can be taken to help relieve symptoms and reduce discomfort:
- Calm the child down. Try to calm your child down and keep him calm. Excitement and crying can worsen an attack of croup.
- Create a humid environment. Run hot water in your bathroom shower or bathtub to fill the air with steam. Humidity helps soften the airways and make it easier for your baby to breathe. It may be helpful to take your child into the bathroom and stay there for a few minutes.
- Breathe cool air. With an open window or open balcony, provide your child with access to fresh, cool air. This may help reduce inflammation and reduce swelling in the airways.
- Avoid irritants. Avoid tobacco smoke or other irritants that may worsen croup symptoms. Try to keep the air around your baby clean and safe.
- Help your child remain confident and calm. Your emotional state can affect your child. Maintain a calm environment, comfort your child, and make him feel safe.
- Seek medical attention. If an attack of croup continues for a long time, symptoms worsen, or become severely alarming, contact your doctor or emergency room. A medical specialist will be able to assess the child’s condition and provide the necessary medical care.
It is important to remember that these recommendations do not replace the advice of a doctor or healthcare professional. If your child has an episode of croup or other medical conditions, you should always see a professional for diagnosis and treatment.
How does moisture help with croup?
Moisture helps with croup because it creates a favorable environment for the airways, softens them and makes it easier for the baby to breathe. Here are some reasons why moisture can be beneficial:
- moisturizing the mucous membrane. The croup virus causes inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, causing the mucous membranes to become dry and irritated. Humidity helps hydrate these areas, reducing irritation and improving breathing comfort;
- softening secrets. Moist air helps loosen secretions and mucus that may form in the airways during croup. This makes them easier to remove and reduces breathing difficulties;
- easing swelling. Humidity can help alleviate swelling in the airways that can occur as a result of inflammation. Reducing swelling eases the airway and promotes normal breathing;
- improvement of local conditions. Humidity helps reduce dryness and irritation of the larynx and vocal cords, which can lead to a hoarse voice and impaired vocal function.
However, it is worth noting that humidity is not a treatment for croup, but is only one way to relieve symptoms and improve the child’s comfort. Humidity can be especially helpful during an attack of croup when symptoms become more severe, but does not replace the need to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
How is croup treated?
Treatment for croup usually involves several approaches to relieve symptoms and fight viral infection. Here are some common treatments for croup:
- Creating a humid environment. Using wet steam or a humidifier can help soften the airways and make it easier for your baby to breathe. This may be especially helpful at night, when croup symptoms may be worse.
- The use of nebulizers. Your doctor may recommend using an inhalation nebulizer to relieve croup symptoms. A special drug is added to the nebulizer, which helps to expand the airways and relieve swelling.
- Use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medications, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Rest and hydration. It is recommended that the child rest and get enough fluids to maintain hydration. Keeping your mucous membranes moist, staying hydrated, and eating nutrient-rich foods can also help promote healing.
- Avoidance of irritants. It is important to avoid tobacco smoke and other irritants that can worsen croup symptoms.
- Temperature control. Keeping your baby’s room at a comfortable temperature can help reduce discomfort and keep him at rest.
For more severe cases of croup or if symptoms worsen, your doctor may decide to use other treatments, such as corticosteroids or epinephrine medications to reduce swelling in the airways. It is important to consult a doctor to assess the child’s condition and prescribe the most effective treatment in each specific case.