1. Introductory remarks
When the upper airways, viz., the voice box, named larynx and windpipe, called trachea get inflammated it creates a cough with hoarseness in children especially when they cry and this conditions is designated as Croup. The term ‘spasmodic coup’ is applied when this develops not only quickly but troubles the child all the more in the night and not characterized by fever but has a tendency to recur every now and then.
2. Causes and symptoms
Viruses are the basic culprits that cause Croup. They are in most of the cases the ones medically identified as parainfluenze but other viruses as adeno and respiratory syncretical could also be responsible for creating this condition. Children between six months and three years are the most affected ones although it can occur in older kids also. When they get affected by upper respiratory infections there are more chances of their getting Croup also. Croup is seasonal in that it affects the children more in the fall and early winter during which time the viruses have a tendency to peak. However, it is not known to be contagious.
It may be preceded by cold symptoms and except in the spasmodic type children may develop feverish symptoms also. With the progressive inflammation of the upper airways when the affected child coughs the sound would be similar to the barking of a seal. Breathing becomes progressively difficult and in serious conditions, the child could become pale or show a bluish tinge around the mouth indicating inadequate oxygen. The symptoms worsen in the night.
3. Treatment
Fortunately, in normal circumstances, Croup is mild and treatable easily. Over the counter NSAID could be given but only in pediatric doses. Breathing in moist air makes them comfortable. This can be accomplished with a cool mist humidifier. If and when it appears to be serious, your pediatrician might have to evaluate the child. The treatment could administering adrenalin and at times may need overnight stay in the hospital. During this time plenty of fluids might have to be given to the child. The child should become alright between 2 and 7 days.
4. Concluding remarks
While in a normal child, Croup is a normal occurrence, special care needs to be taken in regard to prematurely born babies or in other cases where there could be a history of lung disease as asthma, neuromuscular disease as cerebral palsy. Subject to these exceptions and in all preventive measures could be adopted by regular hand washing and keeping the children to the extent possible protected from external conditions that could reduce the chances of their being infected by these viruses.