Children's Health Sponsors do not influence content. This infection results in inflammation and increased mucus production. Children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years are most likely to get croup. Some children appear to be particularly prone to croup and have a number of infections.
Boys are more prone than girls, with peak seasonal outbreaks in late fall and winter.
The infection starts with a cold, cough, and low-grade temperature. Symptoms gradually develop over 2 days. The typical barking cough is usually present by day 3 and is more likely to be worse at night. HOME CARE Section 5 of 13 Breathing moist air from steamed water, a hot shower, or a cool-mist humidifier is helpful in the majority of cases. Coughing and stridor should improve within 20-30 minutes.