Croup usually affects babies between the ages of six months and three years. It is a viral infection that makes the vocal chords swell up and results in a nasty cough and a rough noise when inhaling air. The vocal chords that are affected are also the most narrow part of the airway. For this reason, croup can also make it hard for your baby to breathe efficiently.
One of the many cold viruses is responsible for causing croup. This virus makes both the larnyx and trachea to become swollen and lasts for as long as six days. It tends to come along during flu season and the symptoms worsen during the night. Children under the age of three usually have the most serious symptoms.
Most of the time croup is mild and easily treatable in the home. If the symptoms do not seem to get better or become worse then you should visit a doctor. If you are unsure whether your baby has croup or not then you should see a doctor, too. The doctor can give your baby a prescription to help open their airways, so they can breathe easier.
Croup usually carries with it a fever, hoarse throat and a strong cough. There might also be unusual sounds when the baby tries to inhale. Keep a close eye on your baby, and get to the doctor immediately, if you see any of these symptoms: Drooling, becomes upset, trouble swallowing, crankiness, blue (or darker) tint to the skin or if the breathing is not better after a mist treatment.
The mist treatment can help a lot and should be the first thing you do if you think your baby is having a mild case of croup. Soak a washcloth with warm water and have your baby breathe through it. Turn the shower on hot, close the bathroom doors and windows. Sit in the steamy room with your baby for ten minutes. If it is cool outside then taking them for a short walk can also help.
The doctor might tell you to use an OTC decongestant or give you something to help lower the fever. You should try to avoid cough medicine because of the side effects. They all have them whether it causes irritability, drowsiness or insomnia. An herbal remedy can be a safer, and just as effective, treatment for croup. Rumex crispus works really well against coughs that have been caused by changes in temperature. It does not have any side effects and is not addictive. Ask your doctor or naturopath what he/she thinks about giving it to your child.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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