Croup Treatment

Self-Care at Home

• Although mist or humidified air and exposure to cold air have not been proven effective in treating the symptoms associated with croup, they are still routinely recommended by physicians since they are generally not invasive and have been described anecdotally as helping some children with moderate symptoms.



• Consider substituting water or juice for milk products. Frequent sips of clear liquids can loosen mucus and prevent dehydration, which often occurs with croup.



• Crying can trigger spasmodic coughing. Attempt to comfort your child to prevent agitation.



• Acetaminophen (Children's Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be given for fever or sore throat. Aspirin-containing medications should never be given to children unless prescribed by a physician due to the risk of a serious liver condition called Reye syndrome.



• Over-the-counter cough medications are not routinely recommended. Avoid exposure to respiratory irritants such as smoke.