Croup Treatment for Children

What is croup?

Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis) is a common viral infection that causes swelling of the upper airway, leading to breathing difficulties and a distinctive barking cough. It primarily affects children under five years old and is usually caused by the parainfluenza virus. While mild cases can be managed at home, severe cases may require medical intervention.

How is croup treated?

• Comfort Measures: Keeping your child calm, using a humidifier, or exposing them to cool air can help ease symptoms.
• Hydration: Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Medication: In moderate to severe cases, a doctor may prescribe steroids or nebulised adrenaline to reduce airway swelling.
• Hospitalisation: If a child has severe difficulty breathing, turns pale or blue, or becomes very lethargic, urgent medical care is needed.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

• Severe difficulty breathing
• Colour changes (pale, blue lips or skin)
• Extreme lethargy or difficulty staying awake

How we can help

At Kidswell Health, our experienced paediatricians can provide a thorough diagnosis, offering peace of mind and expert care. We will assess your child’s symptoms and create a personalised treatment plan to help them recover comfortably. Whether it’s reassurance, guidance, or medical intervention, we’re here to support your family every step of the way.

Additional Resources

NHS

NICE

Disclaimer: Information contained on this page is intended as general advice and does not replace a medical assessment. If you are concerned about your child’s health, please contact your doctor for advice. In an emergency or for urgent care, call 999 or visit your local A&E.