Croup treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Croup treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Croup

Croup is a common respiratory condition that affects children, typically between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. It is characterized by a distinctive barking cough, often compared to the sound of a seal's bark. While it can be alarming for parents to hear, croup is usually manageable with proper care and can often be treated at home. The prevalence of croup peaks during the fall and winter months when viral infections are more common.

Causes

Croup is most often caused by a viral infection, particularly the parainfluenza virus. However, it can also be triggered by other respiratory viruses. The virus leads to swelling of the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea), causing the symptoms associated with the condition.

Signs and symptoms

- A barking cough that sounds like a seal - Hoarseness or loss of voice - Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (stridor) - Fever (though not always present) - Symptoms that worsen at night

Diagnosing Croup

Croup is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms described, especially the characteristic cough. A healthcare provider may also perform a physical examination, listening for stridor and checking for other signs of respiratory distress. In some cases, a throat or neck X-ray may be advised to rule out other conditions.

Prevention and natural treatment

Prevention of croup largely revolves around minimizing exposure to respiratory viruses. This includes frequent hand-washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly. When it comes to treatment, functional medicine offers a range of natural remedies aimed at alleviating symptoms and supporting the body's own healing processes: - Humidified air: Breathing in moist air can help soothe a swollen airway. This can be achieved with a cool-mist humidifier in the child's room or by taking the child into a steamy bathroom. - Hydration: Keeping the child well-hydrated helps prevent the airway secretions from becoming thick, making it easier for the child to breathe. - Rest: Adequate rest is crucial for recovery from any viral infection, including croup. - Herbal remedies: Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, can soothe the child’s throat. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially in young children. - Honey: For children over 1 year old, honey can help ease cough symptoms. However, honey should not be given to babies under 1 year due to the risk of botulism. It’s important to monitor the child closely and seek professional medical help if the child appears to be struggling to breathe, exhibits signs of dehydration, or if symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment.

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