Croup

Childhood Skin Problems Slideshow

Medical Author: George Schiffman, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

• What is croup? What causes it?
• Is croup contagious?
• What are the symptoms of croup?
• What is the treatment for croup?
• What warning signs should parents look for?
• Croup At A Glance

What is croup? What causes it?

Croup is an infectious illness of the respiratory system involving the voice box and vocal cords (larynx), windpipe (trachea), and the airways leading to the lungs (bronchial tubes). It is usually caused by many different viruses, including those responsible for the common cold and influenza. Occasionally, it is caused by a bacterial infection. Croup can result in serious breathing difficulties in children. It is more common in babies over 6 months of age and young children, and it occurs more often in boys than girls. It tends to occur more often in the winter months when the weather is colder.