Paediatrics, by video or in person
Croup
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Croup
- A barking cough, like a seal
- A hoarse voice or cry
- A harsh, high-pitched sound when breathing in
- Symptoms worse at night and when crying
- Runny nose and mild fever beforehand
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Croup is a viral infection that swells the voice box and windpipe in young children, usually between six months and five years old. It causes a harsh, barking cough like a seal, a hoarse voice and a noisy, high-pitched sound when breathing in, called stridor. It often starts with a cold and is worst at night. Most children have mild croup that settles in a few days at home. A single dose of a steroid medicine from a doctor reduces the swelling and helps most children. Steam and cold air were once advised, but they have not been shown to help.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A barking cough, like a seal
- A hoarse voice or cry
- A harsh, high-pitched sound when breathing in
- Symptoms worse at night and when crying
- Runny nose and mild fever beforehand
- In more severe croup: noisy breathing even at rest, and the skin between the ribs sucking in
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor the same day if your child has a barking cough and noisy breathing, so a doctor can judge how severe it is and whether a steroid dose will help. Go to a hospital emergency department now if your child has noisy breathing even when calm, the skin between the ribs or at the neck sucks in with each breath, the lips look blue or grey, the child is drowsy, unusually restless or agitated, drooling or cannot swallow, or cannot speak or cry.
Treatment options
- Keeping the child calm and upright, as crying makes the swelling worse
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and discomfort
- A single dose of a steroid medicine, prescribed by a doctor
- Oxygen and nebulised adrenaline in hospital for severe croup
- Plenty of fluids and rest
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Should I put my child in a steamy bathroom?
It is no longer advised. Studies have not shown that steam helps croup, and hot water carries a risk of scalds. Keeping your child calm and seeing a doctor helps more.
Does croup need antibiotics?
No. Croup is caused by viruses. A steroid dose, prescribed by a doctor, is the treatment that reduces the swelling.
Can croup come back?
Yes. Some children have croup several times in early childhood, usually with colds. It becomes less common as the airway grows.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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