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Croup

Also called: Croup, barking cough, laryngotracheitis

A viral infection in young children that swells the voice box and windpipe. It causes a barking, seal-like cough, a hoarse voice, and sometimes a harsh, noisy sound when breathing in (stridor).

AgeMostly 6 months to 3 years
WorseAt night, for 2 to 3 nights
TreatmentCalm, cool air, a steroid dose

Overview

It usually starts like a cold, then the cough turns barky. Most cases are mild and last 3 to 5 days.

A single dose of steroid medicine lowers the swelling and helps children breathe easier within hours.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Barking cough
  • Noisy breathing
  • Barking cough or noisy breathing in

Less common

  • Hoarse voice
  • Fever
  • Runny nose

When to get medical care

Call 911Struggling to breathe, skin pulling in between ribs, blue or gray lips, drooling, or can't swallow.
Get care todayNoisy breathing (stridor) while calm and resting, or a child who seems very tired.
See a doctor soonCroup lasting more than a week or coming back often.

Causes

Viruses, most often parainfluenza.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Yes, it can spread from person to person.
  • How it spreads: coughs, sneezes, or touch.
  • Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Ages 6 months to 3 years
  • Fall and winter

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician listens to your child's breathing.

Questions you may be asked

  • Noisy breathing at rest
  • Drinking and wet diapers

The exam

Watching breathing effort and oxygen level.

Treatment

Keep your child calm, since crying makes it worse.

Self-care

  • Hold and comfort your child
  • Try 10 minutes of cool night air or a cool-mist humidifier
  • Offer fluids often
  • Sleep near your child on bad nights
  • Don't smoke around them

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Steroid dose
Airway swellingPrescription; often one dose.
Fever reducers
Fever and comfortNo ibuprofen under 6 months; dose by weight.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower the chance of spread:

  • Wash hands often
  • Keep up with vaccines

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They may send you to a pediatric specialist: an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Keep your child home until they've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and feel better.
  • For the next few days, wash hands often and teach them to cough into an elbow.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Babies: Any baby struggling to breathe needs care right away.

For caregivers

  • Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
  • Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
  • Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most children get better in a few days.

Myths and facts

Myth: Croup only happens at night.

Fact: It's often worse at night but can happen any time.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • When should we go to the ER?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Croup

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.