Croup (Laryngitis)

 

Croup is an infection of the throat and vocal chords and is caused by several viruses. With children 5 and under it is considered croup but with children older than 5 it is considered laryngitis.

 

How Does it Spread?

• It is most common in the winter and early spring and spreads the same way as the common cold does ie through direct and indirect contact

 

Signs & Symptoms:

• It will begin like a cold but then becomes a fever and a cough

• The larynx will become very red and swollen

• Their voice will get hoarse and develop a barky cough which is often worse at night

• They may experience difficulty breathing

• May become fatigued easily due to their troubled breathing

 

What to do for your Child:

• Croup will typically clear up on its won within 5-7 days and antibiotics will not help to clear it up any faster

• Provide plenty of fluids to your child

• Administer ibuprofen as necessary if child is over 6 months

• Use a cool mist humidifier or take your child outside if it is a cool day

 

Source: North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca