Croup
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Croup is a respiratory infection. It causes your throat and upper airways to swell and narrow. It is also called laryngotracheobronchitis. Croup is more common in children, but adults can also get it.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have severe difficulty breathing.
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your fingertips or the skin around your mouth turns blue.
- You cannot swallow your spit and begin to drool.
- You are severely fatigued (mentally and physically tired).
Call your doctor if:
- Your symptoms do not get better or get worse.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- A cough suppressant is cough medicine that decreases your urge to cough. Your healthcare provider may suggest that you take a cough suppressant at night so you can rest.
- Steroids help decrease inflammation and open your airway.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Manage your symptoms:
- Rest and keep calm as much as possible. Stress hormones can make your cough worse.
- Sit in a steam-filled bathroom. Turn the shower on. Close the door and sit in the bathroom for about 15 to 20 minutes. Do not get into the shower.
- Use a humidifier or vaporizer next to your bed to help decrease your cough at night.
- Drink warm liquids. Warm liquids will soothe your throat and help with your cough.
Prevent the spread of croup:
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- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Carry germ-killing hand lotion or gel with you. You can use the lotion or gel to clean your hands when soap and water are not available.
- Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. Sneeze and cough into a tissue or the bend of your arm. If you use a tissue, throw it away immediately and wash your hands.
- Do not share cups, silverware, or dishes with others.
- Stay home if you are sick.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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