what type of croup is most common course hero

What is spasmodic croup?

Spasmodic croup is the type of croup thought to be caused by an allergic reflux from the stomach. This type of croup may be frightening, as it comes on all of a sudden, particularly in the middle of the night, causing the child to gasp for breath. The child can have a hoarse voice and a stridor when breathing in. A barky cough may also be present. Unlike viral croup, children with spasmodic croup don’t have a fever. However, spasmodic croup can recur.

What causes a coughing cough in a child?

Viral croup is the most common type of croup. It is caused by a viral infection (as the name implies) of the windpipe and voice box. Viral croup often begins as a common cold, and then it gradually turns into a barky cough at night. The child’s voice becomes hoarse, and the breathing will be noisier. The child may also develop stridor, a coarse musical sound when breathing in. Viral croup may be accompanied by a low grade fever, or a fever that can reach up to 40°C.

Why does my child cough at night?

It is caused by a viral infection (as the name implies) of the windpipe and voice box. Viral croup often begins as a common cold, and then it gradually turns into a barky cough at night. The child’s voice becomes hoarse, and the breathing will be noisier.

Can croup cause stridor?

Stridor is often seen in children with croup. It is common in mild cases and is often observed when a child is active or crying. However, if a child has stridor while at rest, it can be an indication of a severe croup.