What is Croup Cough?

Like the general conditions termed 'pneumonia' and 'hepatitis', the term 'croup' does not refer to a specific infectious disease, but rather to the effect of illness on the body. Here is a summary of the symptoms, causes and treatment of croup cough.

Causes of Croup

Croup can be caused by a number of conditions and illnesses (including allergies and bacterial infections), but most often results from viral infection. The parainfluenza virus is the most common viral cause of croup. However, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza, or measles may also lead to croup symptoms. These viruses are transmitted through direct contact and respiratory droplets (coughing and sneezing).

Symptoms of Croup

Initially, before a croup cough develops, cold symptoms such as congestion and perhaps fever may be evident. As lining of the airway becomes inflamed, a hoarse, barking cough will develop. Inflammation in this area of the throat causes vocal chords to swell, directly contributing to the characteristic croup cough, often compared to the sound of a seal barking. Vocal chords are located at the narrowest part of the airway, and when the swelling in this area is severe, breathing can become difficult.

Symptoms may worsen at night or when the vocal cords are further stressed, such as when a child cries. Wheezing or stridor (squeaking sound when inhaling) may be evident as a person suffering from croup struggles to breathe through a swollen airway.

The symptoms of virally-induced croup are usually at their worst 2 to 3 days after the start of infection, and typically last about a week.

Who Gets Sick with Croup?

Anyone can develop croup symptoms, but they are most commonly seen in young children between the ages of 3 months and 5 years. Symptoms tend to be more severe in children under 3 years.

Not everyone who becomes infected with the viruses associated with croup will actually develop a croup cough. Some children have more of a tendency towards developing croup, particularly if they were born prematurely or have a history of breathing problems such as asthma.

What Time of Year Do People Get Croup?

The incidence of croup increases when the viruses that cause the condition peak, usually during the fall, winter, and early spring.

Is Croup Dangerous?

Most cases of viral croup are mild and don't require medical treatment. The severity of symptoms depends on how severe the inflammation is. An extremely inflamed throat can interfere with breathing. If a child is very young or appears to have any difficulty breathing, it is best to seek a medical attention immediately.

Easing Symptoms of Croup

In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe steroids to reduce the swelling and make breathing easier. Sometimes children are even briefly hospitalized for observation or given supplemental oxygen if they are having difficulty breathing.

For milder cases, humidity can help relieve symptoms (such as having humidifier in the room or turning on a hot shower to create steam in the bathroom). Conversely, getting cold air into the airways can reduce swelling. During cold months, this can be accomplished by bundling up and going outside of a brief period.

Note: If you or your loved one is sick, please seek advice from a medical professional, not a computer.

Sources

Bauman, R. (2007). Microbiology With Diseases by Taxonomy. Pearson: Benjamin Cummings.

Kids Health Croup web page

CDC Human Parainfluenza Virus web page