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Croup

Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025

Children can sometimes be affected by a condition called croup. Find out what to look for and how to perform first aid.

What is croup?

Croup is a childhood condition, where there is inflammation of the windpipe and the voice box.

Signs and symptoms

Look for:

  • distressed breathing

  • a short, barking cough

  • rasping noise when breathing in

  • a croaky voice

  • blue-grey tinge to the skin (due to lack of oxygen)

What to do

  1. 1

    Sit the child on your knee, supporting their back, and calmly reassure them.

  2. 2

    If their breathing is distressed, the child has a high temperature, looks grey/blue, call 999 or 112 for emergency medical help. If you are unsure, call 111 for further advice.

    • Monitor their breathing and level of response until help arrives.

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