Parents urged to watch for ‘potentially dangerous cough’ that can leave kids gasping for breath
PARENTS are being urged to check their kids for signs of a nasty "barking" cough, that can leave youngsters gasping for breath.
Health officials have warned of a rise in the number of youngsters suffering croup.
While the numbers have not reached epidemic levels yet, they said it is vital parents know how to spot if their child is suffering.
That's because the condition can be rife in the colder months as autumn and early winter hit.
And due to the fact it's as contagious as the common cold, it can spread fast, the NHS warns.
Croup affects the windpipe and lungs, and can cause a distinctive hacking cough.
The NHS states kids with croup are also likely to make a harsh, painful-sounding noise when they breathe in too.
While the condition is rarely deadly, it can cause dangerous breathing problems and severe complications including pneumonia.
It will typically clear up in 48 hours.
But, if your child is struggling to breathe, experts advise dialling 999 or taking them to your nearest A&E department as soon as possible.
Dr Richard Pebody, acting head of respiratory at Public Health England said there has been a rise in the number of viruses that can trigger croup.
"As expected at this time of the year, we are currently seeing viruses which can cause croup circulating in the community but at relatively low levels," he told The Sun Online.
"So it may be possible that we could see localised increases in England.
"It's not unusual for this to happen now and we will continue to monitor their circulation."
Dr Pebody said in most cases croup is a "mild condition" affecting the airways of babies and kids.
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As well as the distinctive cough, other signs of croup include:
- sore throat
- runny nose
- a fever
- a loud, high-pitched rasping sound when breathing in
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said they have noted a rise in cases, and urged parents to be vigilant.
Croup is typically triggered by a virus and tends to affect babies aged between six months and three years - with most cases affecting one-year-olds.
If your child develops breathing problems as a result of croup, doctors in A&E will often give them oxygen and a shot of adrenaline to ease their breathing problems.
Drugs can also be prescribed to ease the swelling in the throat, which can also make it easier for your child to breathe.
NHS Choices states: "Croup is spread in a similar way to the common cold, so it's difficult to prevent."
Good hygiene can play a role.
And a child's routine vaccinations can also offer protection.
These include, MMR, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
And the jab given to youngsters to prevent diptheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio and haemophilus influenzae type b.
