Croup is an infection that affects the voice box (larynx) and the airway to the lungs (trachea). The scientific name for croup is laryngotracheitis.
Croup is characterised by the sudden onset of a 'seal-like', barking cough that is usually accompanied by a rasping sound when breathing in, known as inspiratory stridor.
Other common characteristics of the condition include a hoarse voice and respiratory distress due to obstruction of the upper airways.
Who is affected by croup?
Croup usually affects young children between six months and three years old. However, children who are over six years old may sometimes get croup. It is also possible for children under six months of age to develop croup, although this is rare.
Croup tends to affect boys more than girls. During childhood, those affected by croup may get the condition two or more times.
Larynx
The larynx is the part of the throat that contains the vocal cords. It is used for breathing, swallowing and talking.
Lungs
Lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that control breathing. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen.
Onset
The onset is the beginning or early stages of a condition or disease.
