Croup is characterized by a tight, low-pitched cough that often sounds like a barking seal or barking dog. Voice often becomes hoarse. Crying generally makes croup appear/sound worse. Croup is associated with “cold” symptoms and sometimes low grade fever.
Treatment usually involves cool mist humidifiers, steam showers or exposure to cool air outside. Sometimes one of our pediatricians at Associates in Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine in Baton Rouge may prescribe/administer a steroid to help decrease the inflammation that occurs around the windpipe (trachea).
Please call the office for an appointment if you are concerned about your child and croup, or if your child is worsening.