Final answer:
Croup is a common condition in young children caused by a viral infection, leading to symptoms such as a barking cough and difficulty breathing. X-ray may show a 'steeple sign' due to narrowing of the trachea. Most cases can be treated at home, with severe cases needing hospitalization and medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Croup is a common condition that can affect children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, although it can occasionally occur up to the age of 6 years. It is caused by a viral infection, often the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), that leads to swelling around the vocal cords, windpipe, and bronchi. Common symptoms of croup include a distinctive barking cough, stridor (a high-pitched sound when breathing in), hoarseness of voice, and difficulty breathing.
On an X-ray, the trachea may appear narrower than normal due to the swelling, often described as a 'steeple sign'. Treatment for croup mostly involves managing the symptoms at home, such as keeping the child comfortable, and using humidified air. However, severe cases may require hospitalization for closer monitoring and treatment with steroids or nebulized epinephrine to reduce the swelling and ease breathing.
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