Pseudocroup - symptoms, triggers and what helps in an emergency
Pseudocroup mainly affects small children. Find out how to recognise a barking cough, what helps during an attack and which household remedies can prevent it.
Things worth knowing about "Pseudocroup"
Pseudocroup is an acute, usually viral inflammation of the upper respiratory tract that mainly affects infants between 6 months and 6 years
Pseudocroup is typically characterised by a sudden barking cough, hoarseness and inspiratory stridor (whistling sound when inhaling) - usually at night and often associated with great anxiety for the child and parents. The condition is usually self-limiting, but can become threatening due to the swelling in the larynx area.
The triggers are usually viruses, in particular parainfluenza viruses, less frequently influenza, RSV or adenoviruses. The mucous membranes in the area below the vocal cords swell due to the inflammatory reaction, which impedes the air supply. In rare cases, serious breathlessness may occur. Common risk factors are dry indoor air, infections, a family predisposition or allergic reactions.Pseudocroup is usually treated symptomatically. Stay calm, inhale cool air, hold the child upright and, if necessary, administer an emergency suppository with cortisone (e.g. prednisolone). Inhalation of moist air, lactoferrin for immune support or anti-inflammatory plant substances such as thyme can also be helpful. Medical help should be sought immediately in the event of a severe attack or shortness of breath.
Typical symptoms of pseudocroup:
- Barking cough, especially at night
- Hoarseness, whistling breath sounds when inhaling
- difficulty breathing, possibly. Retractions in the chest area
- Frequently no or only mild fever
- Symptoms of anxiety due to shortness of breath (child clutches, cries, seems panicky)
Causes and risk factors:
- Viral infections (parainfluenza, RSV, influenza)
- Cold air, dry heating air
- Allergies, irritants
- Anatomical constriction in the larynx in infants
What helps during a seizure:
- Cool, moist air allow to breathe in (open window, bath water vapour)
- Position child upright and reassure
- Cortisone suppositories according to doctor's instructions
- Drink enough
Literature references
- Cherry, J.D. (2008): Clinical practice. Croup. N Engl J Med.
- Bjornson, C.L., Johnson, D.W. (2013): Croup in children. Can Med Assoc J.
- Don, D.M. (2004): Pediatric airway obstruction. Otolaryngol Clin North Am.
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