As pediatricians at Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we know how stressful it can be when your child isn’t feeling well, especially when it comes to breathing issues. One of the most common concerns we see, particularly in the cooler months and with weather changes, is croup.
If your little one has ever woken up in the middle of the night with a harsh, barking cough, it can be frightening and leave you wondering what to do next. We want to offer reassurance, explain what’s happening, and let you know how we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
What is Croup?
Croup is a common respiratory illness that primarily affects children between 6 months and 6 years of age. A virus usually causes it, most often the parainfluenza virus, that causes swelling around the vocal cords and upper airway. This swelling is what gives croup its distinctive barking cough and can sometimes create a high-pitched sound when breathing in, called stridor.
While the sound of croup can be alarming, most cases are mild and improve with time and supportive care.
Symptoms to Watch For
Croup often begins like a typical cold, with a runny nose, mild cough, and maybe a low-grade fever. As the illness progresses, you may notice:
- A barking cough that sounds like a seal
- Hoarseness or raspy voice
- Noisy breathing (stridor), especially when your child is crying or upset
- Symptoms that worsen at night or when lying down
It’s very common for symptoms to be most noticeable overnight and improve during the day.
When to Seek Medical Care
While most cases of croup can be managed at home, there are certain signs that your child should be seen right away:
- Stridor at rest (a high-pitched sound even when your child is calm)
- Difficulty breathing or rapid, labored breathing
- Bluish color to the lips or face
- Trouble swallowing or drooling
- Extreme fatigue or difficulty staying awake
- Inability to speak or cry due to trouble breathing
If your child is struggling to breathe or you feel it’s an emergency, call 911 immediately.
At-Home Comfort Measures
For mild croup, there are simple steps you can take to help your child feel better:
- Stay calm and comfort your child: Anxiety and crying can make symptoms worse. Hold them, speak softly, and try to keep them relaxed.
- Use steam or cool night air: Sitting in a steamy bathroom or stepping outside into the cool night air can help reduce airway swelling.
- Offer fluids: Encourage small sips of water or clear liquids to keep them hydrated.
- Monitor closely: Watch for any changes in breathing, especially at night.
Most children begin to improve within 3–5 days, with symptoms peaking during the first couple of nights.
Our Commitment to Your Family
We know how stressful it can be when your child is sick. That’s why we’ve expanded our availability for ill visits, starting immediately. Our goal is to ensure your child can be seen as quickly as possible, with the shortest wait times.
Here’s how we’re here for you:
- More same-day sick appointments to get your child evaluated right away.
- Nurse triage team available during business hours to answer questions, guide you on home care, and help you decide if your child needs to be seen.
- Open 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays—because illnesses don’t take a day off.
- A physician on call every night, so you always have access to expert advice after hours.
Our entire team is dedicated to making sure you feel supported, informed, and cared for when your child is ill.
Hearing that barking cough in the middle of the night can be unsettling. You are not alone; many families face this, and most children recover quickly with proper care and monitoring.
At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we are here to guide you through every step, from your first phone call to a follow-up visit if needed. If you’re ever unsure whether your child needs to be seen, please call us. We are committed to providing the care, reassurance, and quick access you deserve, day or night.