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Croup

Croup is a viral infection that causes inflammation and swelling of the area near the vocal cords in young children. In some children, croup is a recurring problem. Children outgrow croup as their airway passages grow larger. After age 7, croup is uncommon.


Symptoms

Self-Care

Related topics
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What to do About Croup
Child wakes with a croupy cough, perhaps makes high-pitched noises when inhaling, but does not drool or have trouble swallowing Symptoms can usually be treated at home. If symptoms persist, you should call your doctor for advice.
Croup symptoms for more than three nights  Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.
Shaking chills  Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Continuous cough for more than 1 hour  Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
More than three episodes in one night Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Child cannot relax enough to sleep after 20 minutes of steam inhalation Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing Symptoms in this category are life threatening and require immediate medical treatment.
Child has blue or dusky lips or skin Symptoms in this category are life threatening and require immediate medical treatment.
Symptoms of epiglottitis Symptoms in this category are life threatening and require immediate medical treatment.

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