Croup is respiratory infection commonly occurring in children causing barking cough. Young children are at risk of developing respiratory infection, particularly more during winter. It affects the soft tissues around the larynx (vocal cord) and bronchial tubes thus making it difficult for the air to pass through freely. This produces a characteristic whistling sound and persistent cough. Croup is a mild infection which can be treated easily.
Croup Symptoms :
Respiratory infection begins as common cold which later proceeds into causing inflammation of bronchia and vocal cord. This in turn causes repeated coughing and difficulty in breathing. Children affected with croup infection may produce a loud barking cough similar to seal. Coughing and breathing problem becomes worst at night and the problem becomes severe when the child cries and gets agitated. For some children cough may be accompanied with mild fever also. Young children and infants are susceptible for developing croup infection. Since they have small passage of airways and when it gets blocked by mucus secretion, it can cause breathing problem. The symptoms may last for 3-5 days.
Croup Causes :
Croup is caused by viral infection (Parainfluenza virus) and spreads from one child to the other. The fine particles of droplets can easily get transmitted while coughing and sneezing. These droplets can remain on the toys and clothes of children and can spread to other children. The child should be kept separately and not sent to school until the infection is completely cured. Children of age group 1-3 years are often infected with croup.