What is the best thing to do for croup?

Lifestyle and home remedies

• Stay calm. Comfort or distract your child — cuddle, read a book or play a quiet game.
• Provide humidified or cool air.
• Hold your child in a comfortable upright position.
• Offer fluids.
• Encourage rest.
• Try a fever reducer.
• Skip the cold medicines.

How long does croup last in a child?

Most often, croup lasts 5 to 6 days and becomes worse at night. The croupy cough can last up to 2 weeks.

What triggers croup?

A virus is the most common cause of croup. But the illness may also be caused by bacteria, allergies, or reflux from the stomach. Viruses that are known to cause croup are: Parainfluenza virus.

When should you seek treatment for croup?

Seek immediate medical attention if your child: Makes noisy, high-pitched breathing sounds both when inhaling and exhaling. Makes high-pitched breathing sounds when not crying or agitated. Begins drooling or has difficulty swallowing.

When should my child get medical attention for croup?

No matter which type of croup it is, any time your child has difficulty breathing, retractions (when their skin pulls tight around their ribs), or stridor at rest, immediate medical attention is needed.

What to do if your child gets croup?

If your baby has a mild case of croup, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you treat the croup at home by putting a cool-mist humidifier in his room, giving him a recommended dose of ibuprofen or acetaminophen and sitting him upright to alleviate the coughing.

How can I protect my children from croup?

Make sure they wash their hands before eating and after coming home from school or the playground.

Should you take your child to the doctor with croup?

In most cases of croup, your child won’t need to see a doctor. However, if your child’s symptoms are severe or aren’t responding to home treatment, you should call your doctor. Your child’s doctor will likely ask a number of questions to help determine the best course of treatment: