What Is Croup?
Typically considered a childhood health concern, croup is the infection of the upper airway that is characterized by obstructed breathing and a distinctive “barking” croup cough. Generally occurring in the fall and winter, croup causes swelling and narrowing of the voice box, windpipe, and the breathing tubes that are connected to the lungs. This swelling and constriction can make breathing difficult for the affected child.
While a croup attack may be scare, it is not typically considered medically serious and can often be treated at home. Often beginning as the “common cold,” croup develops as inflammation and coughing progress. Coughing is typically worse at night and can be provoked by crying, anxiety, and agitation. Additional symptoms include fever, sore throat, hoarse voice, and noisy or labored breathing.
Usually caused by a viral infection, the most common cause of croup is parainfluenza virus. The virus may be contracted by breathing in infected respiratory droplets that have been coughed or sneezed into the airspace. The virus may also exist on toys and other frequently touched surfaces. Infection typically begins in the nasal passage and spreads to the vocal cords and windpipe.
As scary as the croup cough and labored breathing may sound, less than 5 percent of patients develop airway obstruction serious enough to necessitate hospitalization or serious medical treatment. As such, natural treatment options typically do just the trick to cure croup. Natural treatment options include aconite, honey and cinnamon, hydrogen peroxide, and a mixture of sugar and turpentine. Additionally, changing the diet to remove added sugar and eliminate dairy may also eradicate some of the mucus causing the coughing and inflammation typical of croup. Treating possible allergens with local honey and drinking additional water to remain well hydrated also cure the croup cough and condition.
