Croup

Croup is a condition that affects babies' and young children's airways. It's usually mild, but call NHS 111 or see a GP if you're worried.

Check if your child has croup

These are the symptoms of croup:

• a barking cough that sounds like a seal (you can hear examples online)
• a hoarse voice
• difficulty breathing
• a rasping sound when breathing in

Your child will usually have cold-like symptoms to begin with, such as a temperature, runny nose and cough.

Croup symptoms usually come on after a few days and are often worse at night.

How to treat croup at home

Croup usually gets better on its own within 48 hours.

Until it does:

Call NHS 111 or see a GP if:

• you're worried
• your child is getting worse