Croup: .
Croup:  A condition seen chiefly in infants and children, due to acute obstruction of the larynx caused by allergy, foreign body, infection, or new growth, marked by a resonant barking cough, hoarseness, and persistent stridor.  It's transmitted by inhalation of infected airborne particles or contact with infected secretions.  Onset of the acute stage is rapid, usually occurs at night, and may be precipitated by exposure to cold air.

Symptoms: 

Hoarse or muffled vocal sounds

Fever

Inspiratory stridor

A distinctive harsh

Barking cough

Varying degree of respiratory distress

Treatment:

Cool humidification during sleep

Antipyretics such as acetaminophen

If it is cause by a bacterial infection - Antibiotic therapy is required

Oxygen therapy may also be needed

Patients with respiratory distress that interferes with oral hydration - Hospitalization and parenteral fluid replacement may be needed to prevent dehydration.
 

Patient teaching:  To relieve croupy spells, taking the patient into the bathroom, shut the door, and turn on the hot water in the shower or sink.  Breathing the warm, moist air quickly eases an acute spell of croup.

If fever or increased in shortness of breath call your doctor promptly.