Cyanosis, which is a bluish color to the skin, lips, or nail bed, indicates severe lack of oxygen in the body and should be considered an emergency. A pulse oximeter may be used to determine if the child is getting an adequate amount of oxygen. This is a skin sensor, placed on the finger, toe, or ear, connected to an oximeter machine by a wire. X-rays of the neck may be ordered to differentiate croup from epiglottitis, which is a more serious condition. Children with croup typically have visible upper airway narrowing, called a steeple sign, that can be seen on x-rays.
Blood tests are usually unnecessary.
This treatment helps to moisten secretions and inflamed tissues to open the airway and soothe irritation. This therapy is believed to decrease the swelling in the respiratory airway. Steroid therapy has been shown to be of benefit in children with moderate to severe croup. Inhaled steroids appear to have limited value. Antibiotics have not been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of croup.