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~ BETTER CHILD “Croup is actually a spectrum of illnesses that affects both the upper and lower airway, but mostly the upper airway, especially the voice box or larynx,” elaborates Dr Shire Singh, a Johannesburg-based paediatrician. “It's commonly caused by viruses like parainfluenza, influenza A and B, and RSV but, in some cases, bacteria such as staphylococcus or streptococcus can also be to blame.” She adds that croup tends to affect children between six months and two years of age. “However, it can also be seen in children up to 10 years of age,” says Dr Singh. “Younger children are more often affected because their smaller airways, including the voice box and windpipe, are more easily narrowed by swelling, making it harder for them to breathe compared to older kids.” SYMPTOMS & SPREAD “Croup is highly contagious and is spread by droplets of viruses formed and dispersed when an infected individual coughs or sneezes or even talks directly in the face of another individual,” explains Dr Singh. “These infected droplets are inhaled by susceptible people, and these colonise the airway and cause illness.” It often starts like a regular cold, with a runny nose, sore throat, and a slight fever. However, as swelling in the airway increases, other signs begin to appear. These may include: « A barking cough that gets worse when your child cries or becomes upset » A raspy or hoarse voice «= Amild fever + Noisy or difficult breathing, especially when breathing in Dr Singh further explains that symptoms often worsen at night, and some children may also develop a rash. And, while mild fever can occur, she notes that a high fever is not typical with this illness. HOME CARE OR URGENT HELP? According to Dr Singh, mild cases of croup can often be managed at home, especially if your child is breathing comfortably and eating and drinking well. “Cool mist humidifiers are useful,” she advises. “Oral steroids taken daily, the use of inhaled steroids, and medication for pain and fever may also be prescribed depending on your child’s needs and age.” Luckily, most mild croup cases improve within 48 hours, and the illness typically resolves on its own within two to five days.
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