{"id":284043,"date":"2026-07-29T13:14:33","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T13:14:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/?p=284043"},"modified":"2026-07-29T13:15:46","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T13:15:46","slug":"child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/","title":{"rendered":"Croup Cough in Kids: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment &amp; When to Worry\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><head><meta http-equiv=\"Content-Type\" content=\"text\/html; charset=utf-8\">\n<\/head><body><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a6bad130984f\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a6bad130984f\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#What_Is_Croup\" >What Is Croup?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#What_Causes_Croup\" >What Causes Croup?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Croup_Symptoms\" >Croup Symptoms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Types_of_Croup\" >Types of Croup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Diagnosis_of_Croup\" >Diagnosis of Croup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Croup_Treatment\" >Croup Treatment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Home_Remedies_for_Croup\" >Home Remedies for Croup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#How_to_Prevent_Croup\" >How to Prevent Croup?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#When_to_Consult_a_Doctor\" >When to Consult a Doctor?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-croup-cough-in-kids-causes-symptoms-treatment-when-to-worry\/#Reference\" >Reference<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n    <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/channel-health-talk\"\n       class=\"pe-healthtalk-banner\"\n       style=\"position:relative; display:block; margin:10px; border-radius:10px; border-bottom:2px solid #117B77; overflow:hidden;\">\n        <span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"position:absolute; left:0; bottom:0; width:2px; height:50%; background:#10847e;\"><\/span>\n        <img alt=\"Join Health Talk by PharmEasy on WhatsApp\"\n             src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PEhealthtalk-1.png\"\n             style=\"width:100%; display:block; border-radius:10px;\">\n    <\/a>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hearing your baby or child wake up in the middle of the night with a loud, barking cough can be frightening. This can often be a sign of croup cough, which is an inflammation of the windpipe. This blog will cover interesting facts, causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatment, home remedies, and prevention of croup cough<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Croup\"><\/span><strong>What Is Croup?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Croup is an upper airway infection that is characterised by hoarseness and coughing that sounds like a seal barking. It is usually caused by viruses such as parainfluenza and RSV but can also be caused by bacteria. It is common in children under the age of 6. Most children with croup exhibit mild symptoms and can be treated at home, but in a few severe cases, hospitalisation is required<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fact-box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>Did You Know?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The annual incidence of croup is around 532 cases per 100,000 individuals.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The parainfluenza virus is responsible for more than two thirds of croup infections<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Croup is more prevalent in boys than girls.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Croup infection is most common in early winter and fall<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_Croup\"><\/span><strong>What Causes Croup?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Croup is caused by viruses such as<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Parainfluenza\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RSV\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Measles\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adenovirus\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Influenza\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rhinovirus\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SARS-CoV-2\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Croup can also be caused by a bacterium, usually <em>Staphylococcus aureus<\/em>. In this case, it is called bacterial tracheitis.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Croup_Symptoms\"><\/span><strong>Croup Symptoms<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Croup symptoms include<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/how-to-stop-constant-cough-in-child-expert-tips-and-tricks\/\"><strong>Cough<\/strong><\/a> that sounds like a seal barking\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cold\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fever\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hoarse voice\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty in breathing\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stridor (A harsh and crowing noise made while breathing in)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Croup\"><\/span><strong>Types of Croup<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The common types of croup that may occur in babies and kids include<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"1\">\n<li><strong>Spasmodic croup:<\/strong> This type mostly occurs abruptly at night for a short duration. It may recur in the same night and continue for 2-3 days. It is sometimes called allergic croup because it is associated with a positive family history of allergies.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Viral croup: <\/strong>This type of croup is most often caused by the parainfluenza virus, usually type 1 and 2. In this case, the symptoms are continuous, unlike spasmodic croup.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recurrent or atypical croup: <\/strong>In this, frequent episodes of symptoms that resemble croup appear more than twice a year.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bacterial tracheitis: <\/strong>This is most often caused by the bacteria <em>Staphylococcus aureus. <\/em>It usually occurs after a viral upper respiratory infection<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000988.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<\/ul><div id=\"sfa_container_284043\" class=\"sfa_container\" style=\"display:none\"><div class=\"sfa_overlay\"><\/div><button id=\"sfa_btn_284043\" class=\"sfa_btn\">Show Full Article<\/button><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"2\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"4\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosis_of_Croup\"><\/span><strong>Diagnosis of Croup<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Croup is diagnosed with the following examinations and laboratory tests<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Chest examination: <\/strong>The doctor will examine your child\u2019s chest to check for wheezing, reduced breath sounds, and difficulty breathing.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Throat examination: <\/strong>A throat examination may show a red epiglottis, which likely indicates croup.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Neck x-ray: <\/strong>This may reveal narrowing of the trachea, which may be indicative of croup.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Croup_Treatment\"><\/span><strong>Croup Treatment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The options for croup treatment in babies and children include<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Steroids:<\/strong> The steroid <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/molecules\/dexamethasone-7137\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">dexamethasone<\/a><\/strong> may be given orally to children with croup. It is safe, effective, and can be easily administered.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Epinephrine: <\/strong>This is shown to improve symptoms within minutes when given via nebuliser.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intubation:<\/strong> In rare cases, when a child is hospitalised for croup, endotracheal intubation may be required.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Antibiotics: <\/strong>Antibiotics are administered to children when primary or secondary bacterial infection is suspected.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Home_Remedies_for_Croup\"><\/span><strong>Home Remedies for Croup<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Home remedies that may help soothe the symptoms of croup include<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"1\">\n<li>Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to help keep them hydrated.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warm fluids may help soothe the throat and make your child feel more comfortable.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure your child\u2019s head is elevated when lying down for ease of breathing. You can use pillows in children older than 12 months. Do not use pillows in babies younger than 12 months.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sit with your child in a steamy bathroom for 15 to 20 minutes. Ensure that you do not leave your child alone.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You may try using a humidifier in your child\u2019s room as dry air may worsen the cough.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take your child outside at night to breathe in the cool night air. Make sure to cover up your child.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your child is over 12 months of age, a spoonful of honey may help to soothe the cough.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid smoking at home as it can worsen the cough.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay next to your child at night in case the cough worsens.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay calm and comfort your child. Try to avoid anxiety in the child.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your child as calm as possible to avoid worsening of cough.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/molecules\/paracetamol-acetaminophen-7802\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Acetaminophen<\/a><\/strong> can be administered to the child for comfort and to reduce fever<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.urmc.rochester.edu\/encyclopedia\/content?contenttypeid=90&amp;contentid=p02942\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/healthcare.utah.edu\/the-scope\/kids-zone\/all\/2026\/04\/treating-your-childs-barking-cough-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">6<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/flemsc.emergency.med.jax.ufl.edu\/wordpress\/files\/2024\/02\/The-PEARL-No.-33_-Croup.pdf\">7<\/a><\/sup>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"2\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"4\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"5\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"6\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"7\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"8\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"9\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"10\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"11\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"12\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Prevent_Croup\"><\/span><strong>How to Prevent Croup?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You may be able to avoid croup cough in your child by ensuring that they<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wash their hands regularly, especially before a meal.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are not in close contact with people who have respiratory infections.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are immunised with the diphtheria, influenza<em> <\/em>and measles vaccine on time.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get appropriate care and treatment of croup to prevent a recurrence.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Home Remedies for Cold in Infants and Babies<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Consult_a_Doctor\"><\/span><strong>When to Consult a Doctor?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/online-doctor-consultation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">consult a doctor<\/a><\/strong> if your child has croup and is not responding to any home remedies. If your child has trouble breathing, a high-pitched sound with every breath, extreme drowsiness, decreased consciousness, and bluish coloured lips and face, you should contact your doctor immediately<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although croup cases are usually mild and improve with care at home, some children may require hospitalisation. If your child develops breathing problems, extreme fatigue, and trouble swallowing, ensure that you go to the doctor as soon as possible. Recognising and diagnosing croup early, timely treatment, and appropriate care can help prevent complications. It is important to ensure hygiene and timely vaccinations for your child to avoid viral and bacterial infections in general.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325167518\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How do you know if your kid has croup?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If your child has a barking cough and hoarseness, it is likely that it is croup cough. Further tests, like a chest exam, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325176586\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can my child sleep alone with croup?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, but it is important that you keep constantly checking with them at night. Make sure your child is not crying as it can worsen the symptoms. If your child is older than 1 year, it is advisable to use a pillow to keep their head up while sleeping<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325229246\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Will antibiotics get rid of croup?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Antibiotics are administered to children only when a primary or secondary bacterial infection is suspected<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325239900\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Is day 3 of croup the worst?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, the most severe symptoms of croup usually appear on day 3 or 4<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325252395\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What gets mistaken for croup?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Sometimes, conditions such as acute epiglottitis (epiglottis infection), deep neck space abscesses (a condition characterised by fever, drooling, and neck stiffness), presence of a foreign body in the throat, and allergic reactions may be mistaken for croup as they all have similar symptoms<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785325272197\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can croup turn into pneumonia?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, complications such as pneumonia may occur as a result of croup<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\">2<\/a><\/sup>.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reference\"><\/span><strong>Reference<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>1. Croup: MedlinePlus Medical\u00a0Encyclopedia. Accessed July 3, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000959.htm\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2. Kadam S, Daley S, Carr B. Croup.\u00a0<em>StatPearls<\/em>. Published online June 2, 2025. Accessed July 3, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/app-statpearls-legacy-prod.azurewebsites.net\/point-of-care\/20142\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3. Croup \u2013 discharge: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Accessed July 3, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000994.htm<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4. Tracheitis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Accessed July 3, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000988.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000988.htm<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>5. Content \u2013 Health Encyclopedia \u2013 URochester Medicine. Accessed July 16, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.urmc.rochester.edu\/encyclopedia\/content?contenttypeid=90&amp;contentid=p02942\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.urmc.rochester.edu\/encyclopedia\/content?contenttypeid=90&amp;contentid=p02942<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>6. Treating Your Child\u2019s \u201cBarking Cough\u201d at Home | University of Utah Health. January 2, 2023. Accessed July 16, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/healthcare.utah.edu\/the-scope\/kids-zone\/all\/2026\/04\/treating-your-childs-barking-cough-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/healthcare.utah.edu\/the-scope\/kids-zone\/all\/2026\/04\/treating-your-childs-barking-cough-home\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>7. The-PEARL-No.-33_-Croup. Accessed July 20, 2026. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/flemsc.emergency.med.jax.ufl.edu\/wordpress\/files\/2024\/02\/The-PEARL-No.-33_-Croup.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/flemsc.emergency.med.jax.ufl.edu\/wordpress\/files\/2024\/02\/The-PEARL-No.-33_-Croup.pdf\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Disclaimer<\/em><\/strong><em>: The information provided here is for educational\/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or\u00a0implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.<\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Links and product recommendations in the information<\/em>\u00a0<em>provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products\/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<div class=\"pld-like-dislike-wrap pld-custom\">\r\n    <div class=\"pld-like-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-like-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Likes\" data-post-id=\"284043\" data-trigger-type=\"like\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132143\/like.png\" alt=\"Likes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-like-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\">    <\/span>\r\n<\/div><div class=\"pld-dislike-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-dislike-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Dislikes\" data-post-id=\"284043\" data-trigger-type=\"dislike\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132208\/dislike.png\" alt=\"Dislikes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-dislike-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\"><\/span>\r\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Introduction Hearing your baby or child wake up in the middle of the night with a loud, barking cough can be frightening. This can often be a sign of croup cough, which is an inflammation of the windpipe. This blog will cover interesting facts, causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatment, home remedies, and prevention of croup [\u2026]","protected":false},"author":188,"featured_media":284116,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[1900,14392,14387],"tags":[14583],"acf":[],"_embedded":{"wp:featuredmedia":[{"source_url":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/croup-cough.webp"}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/284043"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/188"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=284043"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/284043\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":284164,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/284043\/revisions\/284164"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/284116"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=284043"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=284043"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=284043"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}