Croup and Your Child

The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.Croup is one of the most common childhood illnesses that cause hoarseness, a barking cough and noisy breathing. These symptoms are believed to occur as a result of swelling of the voice box due to a viral infection. Croup mostly occurs in infants and young children between the ages of 6 months and 3 year of age. This age group is most distressing for parents when they are sick because children have limited language development to effectively communicate their symptoms or feelings. This PET is designed to ask and answer the more basic questions that distressed parents might have when their child is ill. It also addresses signs and symptoms that parents should be looking for when they become severely ill and should seek medical attention. Treatment options are also talked about, so that each parent can make an informed decision about their child’s well being