Recurrent Croup in Children

Croup is a common childhood illness that causes swelling in the airways, leading to a distinctive cough, hoarseness, and breathing difficulties, often worse at night. Most children will experience croup at least once, but some may have recurrent episodes.

Common Causes:

Viral infections, such as parainfluenza virus, are the main cause of croup. It typically starts with cold-like symptoms and progresses to a barking cough and noisy breathing.
Allergies or environmental factors, like dry air or smoke, can make croup symptoms worse.
Some children may be more prone to recurrent croup if they have a family history of asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Management and Treatment:

Steam inhalation or sitting in a bathroom with hot showers can help ease breathing.
Steroid medication (usually prescribed by your GP or an ENT specialist) can reduce airway inflammation and improve symptoms quickly.
Cold air (such as stepping outside on a cool night) can help soothe the airways in some children.
Hydration is essential to keep your child comfortable.

When to See an ENT Specialist: If your child experiences frequent or severe croup episodes, or if symptoms do not improve with basic treatments, it’s important to seek an ENT specialist. We can assess if there are underlying issues, such as a tendency for recurrent infections or airway cause.

Croup can be distressing, but with the right care, most children recover quickly and stay healthy.