If your child has a high fever with severe croup, call your doctor or visit the emergency room. Call EMS if your child is having breathing problems, is lethargic or has bluish skin. Infection of the upper airway can cause the tissue at the base of the tongue to swell, causing a partial blockage of air flow. Be aware of quick, shallow breaths or drooling. Some children will rock if they are struggling to breathe.
Signs are the rapid onset of high fever, sore throat, muffled voice, and reluctance to talk or eat.
The child may have a high-pitched breathing sound without the barking associated with croup. Look for changes in the child's level of consciousness. Seek help immediately. 100 children experience them. The most obvious symptom of a seizure is uncontrollable shaking, usually of the entire body.