Croup

Croup!

Laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB) or croup is a common cause of the infamous barking cough in children- especially in those younger than 5 years old. Croup happens when children have a virus that causes the upper airway to swell. It can be caused by several different viruses but the most common virus is parainfluenza virus. This swelling in the upper airway, leads to a distinctive barking cough, hoarseness, and sometimes a harsh, high-pitched sound when breathing in (called stridor).

Symptoms: 

• low-grade fever
• Rhinitis
• Cough- more pronounced at night time
• Tachypnea
• Hoarseness

What to do:

• Moist Air: Use a cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room, or sit in a steamy bathroom for 10–15 minutes.
• Fresh Air: Sometimes, breathing in cool night air can help reduce swelling.
• Hydration: Offer plenty of fluids to keep your child hydrated.
• Rest: Encourage your child to rest, which helps the body fight the virus.

If you ever notice your child has this barking cough and stridor when resting, bring them in to your pediatrician to be assessed. They will need prescription medications for the swelling and possibly a breathing treatment.

When to Go to the Hospital

• Struggles to breathe or is visibly working hard to get air
• Has blue or gray lips or skin
• Can’t speak or cry due to trouble breathing
• Seems very drowsy or unresponsive
• Has a very high fever (especially in infants)

How We Can Help:

Dr. Sima Stein of Sima Stein, MD, located in San Jose, California, is a board-certified physician who can help your child determine if he or she has a stool leakage and how to help them manage it. Learn more about food allergy or sensitivity and the ways Dr. Stein can help you and your child manage their condition. Our team can assess underlying causes, recommend dietary changes, and provide safe, age-appropriate treatments—including allergy tests when necessary.

If you're concerned about your child’s bowel habits, we’re here to help. Call our office to schedule an evaluation. https://www.doctor-stein.com/blog/prepping-for-your-childs-immigration-medical-exam-our-top-