What should you know about croup wheeze?

Croup is commonly triggered by a viral upper-airway infection. The sound may be harsh, high-pitched, or rough, especially when a child breathes in; this is often called stridor rather than wheeze from the lower chest. It can become louder when a child cries because distress increases airflow through the narrowed area. A hoarse voice, barking cough, runny nose, or fever may occur too, but symptoms vary.

Keep your child upright and calm, offer small sips of fluid, and stay nearby to observe breathing. Avoid smoke and do not force food or drink if breathing is difficult. A cool, quiet room may help comfort, but steam can burn and is not a reliable treatment. A clinician may assess the airway and prescribe medicine; severe symptoms may require nebuliser treatment.

Get emergency help if noisy breathing continues while your child is resting, the skin pulls in between or below the ribs, lips look blue or grey, your child cannot speak or cry normally, drooling prevents swallowing, or they become unusually sleepy. Seek same-day medical advice if the sound is recurring, worsening, or accompanied by poor drinking or fewer wet nappies. Arrange a child health consultation when you are unsure whether the noise comes from the throat or chest.

Ask what breathing sounds should prompt urgent action, whether your child needs an examination even if the sound settles, and how to use any prescribed medicine. Tell the clinician when the noise began, whether it occurs at rest, and whether your child has had croup before.