Is it a cold?
Or something else like whooping cough, croup or RSV?
Fortunately, croup does have some telltale signs and symptoms and treatments that can bring some relief.
Heres what you better know.
What is croup?
The illness shows up most frequently in the colder months between October and March.
Most cases of croup are not serious, but a severe case can require hospitalization.
What causes croup in babies and toddlers?
Genetics may also play a role in whether a baby or toddler catches croup.
Were you or one of your siblings babies with croup?
Talk to your family to find out your history.
Some children may have recurrent episodes of croup.
Structural abnormalities can be a cause of recurrent croup.
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What are the symptoms of croup in babies and toddlers?
Croup usually begins like thecommon cold runny nose, maybe a fever, and plenty of irritability.
But after a few days, your childs voice or cries may sound hoarse.
Babies who are born prematurely are most at risk for complications.
How is croup diagnosed?
These tests include:
Is croup contagious?
Yes, croup is contagious.
Croup germs can also survive on surfaces (e.g.
doorknobs, toys, shared drinks.)
Croup is usually contagious for three days after symptoms start or until the infected person is fever-free.
How long does croup last?
Croup in children generally lasts from several days up to a week, and it may recur.
In general, mild cases of croup go away by themselves and can be managed at home.
(And no, you dont need antibiotics.
Croup is almost always sparked by a virus, not a bacteria).
Always call your pediatrician with any questions or concerns.
Treatments for croup in babies and toddlers
you might treat most cases of croup at home.
Youll also want to school him in proper hand washing after blowing his nose, coughing or sneezing.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Modeling this behavior and coaching when needed will help the healthy habits stick.
Kids older than 5 should also receive theCOVID-19 vaccine.
Parents of younger children can help protect their littlest ones by getting the flu and COVID vaccines themselves.
A vaccine against parainfluenza viruses, the most common croup-causing viruses, is not currently available.
When should I go to the doctor for croup?
Whenever you suspect croup in your baby or toddler, call the doctor for a diagnosis.
Hospitalization is sometimes required in more serious cases.
You know your child best, so trust your instincts if your little one doesnt seem well.
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