A cool mist humidifier can be used to help clear the mucus and congestion up. In days past, a child was put into a hot steaming bathroom to clear the congestion. Hot moist air can still work, but it is second best to cold moist air. If the air is cool and wet outside, bundle your child up and take them outside to breath in the cold moist air. This treatment was quite common years ago and should only be used now if your doctor gives instructions to do so.
Ipecac can break up a coughing spasm.
A doctor may prescribe a ventilator of racemic epinephrine or albuterol to help with breathing. Antibiotics are usually not given for croup because it is a virus. But, if there is an infection accompanying it, such as an ear infection, bronchitis or a sinus infection an antibiotic will be given. Croup is a highly contagious childhood virus so keep your child away from other children with any type of chronic cough. If your child has had croup before, keep a cool mist humidifier in their room whenever they get a cold to possibly prevent it from developing into chronic croup.