If your child suddenly develops a barking cough in the middle of the night, it can be scary. That seal-like sound is one of the telltale signs of croup, a common illness in young children. While it can sound alarming, most cases of croup are mild and manageable at home with some simple care strategies.

Here’s what you need to know about croup, including what causes it, how to spot the symptoms, and how to care for your child when it strikes.

What is Croup?

Croup is a respiratory illness that affects the upper airways, including the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea). It’s usually caused by a viral infection called parainfluenza, but can also be a result of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and influenza (flu). The swelling in the airways leads to the distinctive barking cough and sometimes noisy breathing called stridor.

Croup most often affects children between 6 months and 5 years old, but older kids can get it too. These viruses spread through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces.

What is Croup WFMC Health

Signs and Symptoms of Croup

Symptoms often begin like a regular cold, including runny nose, mild fever, or sore throat. But as the illness progresses, you might notice:

  • A “barking” cough, especially at night
  • Stridor, a high-pitched, squeaky sound when breathing in
  • Hoarseness or a raspy voice
  • Fever (usually low-grade but can be higher in some cases)
  • Difficulty breathing (in more serious cases)

The cough and noisy breathing tend to get worse at night and may improve during the day.

Caring for Your Child at Home

Most cases of croup are mild and can be treated at home. Here are a few ways to help your child breathe easier and stay comfortable:

  • Stay calm and soothe your child. Crying can make symptoms worse. Reassure them and keep the environment quiet and comforting.
  • Use a cool-mist humidifier in their room. Moist air can help loosen mucus and reduce swelling in the airways.
  • Try a steamy bathroom. Sit in the bathroom with the shower running hot water for 10–15 minutes to create steam. This can also help to loosen mucus and open up their airways.
  • Keep your child hydrated.
  • Elevate their head while sleeping to ease breathing.

When to Call the Doctor

While most cases are mild, you should seek medical attention if you notice the following symptoms:

  • Your child is struggling to breathe or seems to be working hard to breathe.
  • You hear stridor even when they’re calm and not crying.
  • They have blue lips or fingernails, or seem very drowsy. This is a sign they are not getting enough oxygen, and you should call 911 or seek medical care immediately.
  • The cough or breathing problems are getting worse, not better.
  • Your child is under 3 months old and showing symptoms.

Medical providers may recommend a steroid medication to reduce airway inflammation in moderate or severe cases. Occasionally, children may need breathing treatments; in rare cases, they may need hospital care.

Croup can be alarming, especially the first time your child experiences it. But with some simple home care and knowing when to seek help, most children recover quickly and fully. Always trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, reach out to your child’s pediatrician for guidance.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.