|
Croup is a condition characterized by a barking cough
with difficulty of breathing. It is common in the young
population during infancy and childhood. Causative
factors may include allergy, viral, bacterial, or
irritants but the most common of these is a viral cause.
The causative organism may enter the airway through the
nose. It later on cause edema and swelling of the vocal
cords. These vocal cords are the ones which vibrate and
produce sound when air pass through them. Their swelling
causes the symptoms of hoarseness, stridor, and barking
cough.
Aside from the symptoms mentioned there can be bluish
discoloration of the skin and dehydration if the
condition becomes severe. Intubation of the patient is
done with progressive airway obstruction and IV fluids
given for dehydration. Oral medications are given
depending on the needs of the patient.
|