Chesty cough after croup

Croup inflames the upper airway and a cough may change as mucus moves through the airways. A new or continuing cough can also occur with a Common Cold or Acute Bronchitis. Asthma, Bronchiolitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Acid Reflux and Bronchiectasis are other possibilities, especially when symptoms recur or include wheeze.

Offer fluids and rest, keep the child away from smoke and watch breathing when calm and asleep. Follow the discharge instructions and give medicines only as directed. Do not use steam or unfamiliar cough remedies because they can cause harm or be unsuitable for children. Arrange review if the cough is not improving or interferes with drinking or sleep.

Seek emergency help for noisy breathing at rest, ribs pulling in, blue lips, pauses in breathing, unusual sleepiness, inability to drink or drooling with difficulty breathing. Seek prompt review for fever returning, worsening cough, dehydration or breathlessness. The cough itself does not establish a particular condition.

Ask whether the lungs and oxygen level need checking, whether the croup has resolved, which warning signs matter overnight and when normal activity can resume. Mention previous wheeze, allergies and any prescribed inhaler.