Symptoms Croup often begins with cold symptoms, then develops into a barking cough, hoarseness and stridor, a harsh noise during inhalation. Symptoms are often worse at night and may last several days.
Home care for mild croup Keep the child calm because crying can worsen airway noise. Offer fluids and keep the child upright and comfortable. Steam has not been shown to reliably improve croup and can cause burns. Cough medicines are generally not useful.
Medical treatment A clinician may prescribe a corticosteroid to reduce airway swelling. More severe croup may require nebulized adrenaline and observation in a medical facility.
Emergency warning signs Seek emergency care if stridor is present while the child is resting, breathing is difficult or very fast, the chest pulls in deeply, lips look blue or grey, the child drools or cannot swallow, becomes unusually sleepy or agitated, or appears exhausted.
Croup is usually contagious because it is caused by a virus. Hand hygiene and avoiding close contact while the child is unwell can reduce spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is croup the same as asthma?
No. Croup affects the upper airway, while asthma primarily affects the lower airways.
Does steam help?
Evidence is limited, and hot steam can cause burns.
Why is croup worse at night?
Airway swelling and natural nighttime changes can make symptoms more noticeable.
When is noisy breathing dangerous?
Stridor at rest or with visible breathing difficulty needs urgent assessment.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.