Symptoms Of Croup To Watch Out For

Barking Cough

Children with croup often cough because a cough is an automatic reflex when the body feels like something is blocking the airway. In most children, this just sounds like a typical dry cough that comes and goes. If the croup is more problematic, a child might begin to have a barking cough. This symptom does not always appear, but it can occur in rare types of croup, such as spasmodic croup. The unusual symptom happens because the narrowed airways and swelling affect the larynx. A barking cough is sharp, slightly high pitched, and sudden, and some describe it as sounding like a 'crowing' noise as well. Children with this symptom may cough over and over until they struggle to catch a breath in between coughing fits.

Continue reading to get more details on major symptoms to watch out for.

Cyanosis

Cyanosis is the medical name for skin with a slightly blue-tinged appearance. It occurs whenever the tissues near the surface of the skin do not have enough oxygen, so it is a sign a child has poor circulation, or their blood is not entirely oxygenated. If a baby is exhibiting signs of cyanosis, it is essential to take them to the emergency room as soon as possible.

This is one of the most common reasons children with croup are admitted to the hospital. It is a huge cause for concern because it means the child is not getting enough air. Children with cyanosis frequently just get it in the hands and feet, and you may notice the early signs of it if their fingernails and toenails are blue. However, the condition can cause an overall blue cast to appear all over your child's skin. It can be tricky to notice in children with darker or redder skin because it may present as more of a purple or dark brown shade.

Continue for another major symptom of croup to keep an eye out for.