There are a number of illnesses that your child can face during the winter months. Croup is a commonly occurring disease that can affect your child's airways. If you suspect your child is suffering from croup, here is what you need to know.
Is It Croup?
Croup is characterized by a loud cough that often worsens at night. Your child can contract the disease when he or she inhales infected droplets that are in the air. As a result, your child can also experience trouble breathing.
The disease is more common in children than adults. In many instances, the symptoms of the disease do not require medical intervention. Some children do develop more serious symptoms that require medical intervention and possibly hospitalization.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Before attempting to treat your child at home, it is important to get a diagnosis from your primary care physician. He or she can assess your child's condition and determine if he or she does have croup or if there is another underlying condition causing his or her illness.
Ideally, your child should improve with care at home after the diagnosis is received. You should still be on the alert for signs that additional treatment is needed. If your child begins to experience difficulty swallowing or breathing or his or her skin seems to have a bluish tint, call your physician. If your child's condition seems to be worsening, call for help.
What Can You Do at Home?
To treat your little one, there are several things you can do to help him or her recover. One of those things is to ensure that your child is getting enough rest. The time spent sleeping is used by the body to start to heal.
If your child is experiencing any discomfort, ask your physician about giving him or her an over-the-counter pain reliever. It is important to note that you should never give your child a product containing aspirin while he or she has a fever. Doing so could put your child at risk of developing a more serious condition.
In addition to these steps, you can place a humidifier in your child's bedroom to help him or her breathe easier. If your child is running a fever, remember to keep him or hydrated. Dehydration can make your child's symptoms worse.
Talk to your primary care physician to discuss other ways to help your child feel better. Learn more by clicking here.
Share23 November 2016
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