Croup

 

2: Croup-Risk Factors & Diagnosis

What are the Risk factors?

The main risk factor for croup is infancy and childhood. The risk is higher during autumn and winter, but croup can occur year-round. Though uncommon, croup sometimes occurs adults. As with any respiratory illness, croup is more likely to develop when there is exposure to smoking in the home; infants and children should never be exposed to tobacco smoke. Croup is mildly contagioius through respiratory secretions spread by coughing, or by direct contact with contaminated surfaces, including hands; family members who are at higher risk for infections (malnourished, immunocompromised, elderly, very young, underlying chronic health conditions, chemotherapy, etc.) should not be exposed to the child with croup. Good handwashing with soap and warm water, and cleaning of contaminated surfaces with a weak Clorox solution (one part Clorox/10 parts tapwater), will help to prevent spread of disease.

How is it Diagnosed?

In typical cases a description of the symptoms and a physical examination are all that are needed to diagnose croup. In complicated or severe cases, x-rays of the neck and chest, tests to measure of blood oxygen levels, and examination of the airways with a laryngoscope (an instrument that that allows doctors to see the vocal chords) may be used to confirm diagnosis and help the doctor decide which treatments may be needed to relieve symptoms. Other causes of cough in children may include foreign body in the airway (buttons, coins, trinkets, food, etc.) . Pertussis (whooping cough) and rubeola (measles) are coughing diseases which are largely prevented by routine childhood immunizations. There is no immunization against croup. (Insert video of child with pertussis, picture of measles facies). Key points: 1. In most cases, diagnosis can be made based on physical examination and a history of symptoms. 2. X-rays, oxygen measurements, and visual examination of the vocal chords may be performed to confirm diagnosis in more severe or complicated cases.

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