Overview

Croup refers to an infection of the upper airway, which obstructs breathing and causes a characteristic barking cough.

The cough and other signs and symptoms of croup are the result of swelling around the voice box (larynx), windpipe (trachea) and bronchial tubes (bronchi). When a cough forces air through this narrowed passageway, the swollen vocal cords produce a noise similar to a seal barking. Likewise, taking a breath often produces a high-pitched whistling sound (stridor).

Croup typically occurs in younger children. Croup usually isn't serious and most children can be treated at home.