Most children with croup just have a barky cough, but some develop tight breathing called stridor. You can treat most croup at home. Remember that coughing up mucus is very important for protecting the lungs from pneumonia. Use a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer in the bedroom if the air is dry.

Is a humidifier or vaporizer better for croup?

Croup Treatment at Home (Stridor)

A humidifier, not a hot vaporizer, but a cool mist humidifier also will help with getting the swelling down. Cold air also helps relieve stridor. If it's cold outside, take your child outdoors.

Should you steam a child with croup?

Give your child regular cold drinks, which will be soothing for their throat. Some people may advise the use of steam; however this is not something we recommended. There is no evidence that this is effective and there may be a risk of scalding your child.