Croup is swelling of the trachea and larynx. It can be caused by a virus, allergies or change in night temperature. Children younger than 3 are most at risk due to their narrow airways, according to KidsHealth. Croup can start suddenly. A well-known symptom is a cough that sounds like a bark and harsh, noisy breathing. Cough suppressants are not recommended for children under age 4, but there are alternative treatments you can use for your toddler.
Steam Treatment
When your toddler has croup, help his cough by using steam. Turn on the hot water in your bathroom shower and close the door to let the bathroom steam up. Sit with your toddler in the steamy bathroom for 20 minutes. This steam treatment should make it easier for your child to breathe.
Humidifier Treatment
Help your toddler's croup symptoms by using a cool-mist humidifier. Place the humidifier in your toddler's bedroom and run it throughout the night. Again, this should ease breathing.
Cool Air Treatment
Use cool air and hold your toddler in an upright position to help him with his croup symptoms. Dress your child warmly and take him outdoors in the cool weather. Sit him upright on your lap in the cool air for a couple of minutes.
Diet
Offer your toddler plenty of clear fluids to keep him hydrated and warm foods such as soup or broth. Avoid giving your toddler orange juice or soda during this time because these items can hurt your child's throat if it is sore from coughing. Try not to give your toddler dairy products that thicken secretions in the respiratory tract and make it harder for your child to breath.
Rest
Encourage your toddler to get plenty of rest and stay calm. Crying will worsen your child's symptoms and make it harder for him to breath. Helping your child get plenty of rest and staying calm will help fight the infection. If you have tried these treatments and your child's symptoms do not improve, check with your child's doctor or pediatrician.
