Ready Reference of CROUP (Acute Laryngotracheitis).

[CilmiSabca]

CROUP (Acute Laryngotracheitis)
SEASON:
Varies; usually occurs at night.
SUSCEPTIBILITY:
Young children.
SYMPTOMS:
Hoarseness; sharp, baking cough; crowing; wheezing, or grunting sound on breathing in.
S o m e t i m e s: Difficulty breathing.
CAUSE:
Usually, virus {most often parainfluenza or adenovirus; occasionally, bacteria or inhaled object.
TRANSMISION:
Probably, person-to-person; contaminated objects; droplets spray.
INCUBATION:
2 days (usually follows cold or flu).
DURATION:
1/2 hour; may recur over several days.
TREATMENT:
CALL THE DOCTOR immediately if steam doesn't bring relief; if baby looks blue, has blue lips, or is drooling excessively; or if you suspect an inhaled object.
INITIAL TREATMENT:
Steam [see Home remedies on this forum] FOLLOW-UP Humidifier.
DIET:
Reduce intake of dairy products, especially if mucus is heavy. Sleep in same room as baby to reassure and to be handy for treating another attack.
PREVENTION:
Supply humidified air to baby with cold or flu.
RECURRENCE:
Tends to repeat in some children.
COMPLICATIONS:
Breathing problems; pneumonia; ear infection about 5 days after recovery.