If your child is suffering from a barking cough, hoarse voice and noisy breathing which worsens at night— they may have croup. This viral infection, usually caused by the parainfluenza virus, is a common infection in children under the age of 5. Although it is not usually a serious infection, it may cause extreme discomfort in children and keep them awake at night. In this article, we take a look at how to help croup and what at-home croup treatment options you have.
What is croup?
Croup is an infection that results in inflammation of the windpipe (trachea) and the vocal cords. The inflammation is usually caused by viruses responsible for common upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. This swelling causes narrowing of the airway, which can make it difficult for a child to breathe. Croup is contagious and can spread through hand contact, sneezing and coughing.
Symptoms of croup
The symptoms may begin as cold symptoms, which include a fever, sore throat, runny nose, irritability and fatigue. After this, the symptoms of croup will appear, which include stridor (a high-pitched squeaky sound when your child breathes in), a hoarse voice and a barking cough. At night, the symptoms are typically worse because of the cold night air.
In rare cases, it may cause trouble breathing in children. In these instances, urgent medical attention is required.
Natural therapies for croup
Echinacea
Echinacea is a potent immune-boosting herb. Numerous clinical trials have shown that it can help to reduce the length of a cold and improve symptoms. In children very susceptible to respiratory tract infections it could be taken in a low dose as a preventative. Echinacea is available in liquid form and can be mixed in a little juice 3-4 times a day.
Elderberry
Both the berries and the fruit of the elderberry plant are used for viral infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory tract. Clinical trials in children have found that elderberry can reduce the severity and duration of a cold, meaning it’s fighting the same viruses that cause a cold. The trick is to start giving it to your children when symptoms first begin. Elder flowers are anti-catarrhal, meaning they help to clear up nasal congestion. It is also indicated if there is a fever and assists the immune system during this time.
Liquorice
One of the best respiratory herbs that can help to soothe inflamed airways, support the immune system and reduce inflammation. It is traditionally used for coughs, sore throats and bronchitis. One of the best things about using liquorice in children is that it naturally tastes sweet—making it easier to give to fussy kids. Simply brew a good quality tea and sweeten it with a bit of manuka honey. Allow to cool and administer regular doses throughout the day.
Turmeric
Turmeric—nature’s strongest anti-inflammatory! It may be useful in croup to reduce the inflammation in the airways and to help ease the pain. Try using turmeric in soups, warmed rice milk or curries. For stronger results, you could buy a liquid turmeric and take it a few times a day or powder mixed in a little juice. Kids will love their new vibrant-coloured medicine!
Cod Liver oil
An oldy but a goody, cod liver oil may be great for respiratory infections and associated conditions. It contains omega-3 which can help to reduce inflammation in the airways and support the immune system. It naturally contains vitamins A & D, which are essential for airway health and healthy immunity. Purchasing a good quality product will ensure a non-fishy-tasting product. Once opened, simply store it in the fridge and use it up within two months.
Zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D
These nutrients are essential for a healthy immune system. When the body comes into contact with a virus, these are some of the nutrients your body needs the most. They help to remove viruses quickly and reduce free radical damage caused by the infection. This will enable your child to get better quicker! It’s easy to find a powder that covers these nutrients, and most of them taste great too. If your child is old enough, there are chewable products available, most of which are suitable for those over the age of three.
Probiotics
If your child is susceptible to croup and seems to get it every year, consider a probiotic. There are specific products that contain strains that have been clinically proven to reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections in children.
Essential oils
Depending on the age of the child, you could apply a chest rub of menthol, eucalyptus or lavender. This will help to decongest the sinuses and, when inhaled, may help to kill off any bugs. Alternatively, try burning or using a diffuser and put it in the child’s bedroom for them to inhale during the night.
Plenty of rest
Allow the child to rest at home, drink plenty of liquids and go to bed early. Although children may lose their appetite while unwell, try small portions of soups or broths, avocado on rice cakes, fresh fruit and a little protein such as chicken. Avoid processed or sugary foods and dairy—this will only add more congestion and take the immune system longer to recover.
Related Reads
References
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/croup
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional
- Wahab, S., Annadurai, S., Abullais, S. S., Das, G., Ahmad, W., Ahmad, M. F., Kandasamy, G., Vasudevan, R., Ali, M. S., & Amir, M. (2021). Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology. Plants, 10(12), 2751. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
- Hewlings, S., & Kalman, D. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health. Foods, 6(10), 92. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/
- Brunvoll, S. H., Nygaard, A. B., Ellingjord-Dale, M., Holland, P., Istre, M. S., Kalleberg, K. T., Søraas, C. L., Holven, K. B., Ulven, S. M., Hjartåker, A., Haider, T., Lund-Johansen, F., Dahl, J. A., Meyer, H. E., & Søraas, A. (2022). Prevention of covid-19 and other acute respiratory infections with cod liver oil supplementation, a low dose vitamin D supplement: quadruple blinded, randomised placebo controlled trial. BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), 378, e071245. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9449357/
- Zhao, Y., Dong, B. R., & Hao, Q. (2022). Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2022(8). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9400717/
- Horváth, G., & Ács, K. (2015). Essential oils in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases highlighting their role in bacterial infections and their anti-inflammatory action: a review. Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 30(5), 331–341. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7163989/
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