Croup and Bronchiolitis

Key points

• • Croup is a viral infection that swells the voice box and windpipe, common in toddlers, usually from the parainfluenza virus.
• • It gives a barking, seal-like cough, a harsh noise on breathing in (stridor), and a hoarse voice, often worse at night.
• • Bronchiolitis is a viral infection of the smallest airways in babies, most often from the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
• • It gives a runny nose then wheeze, fast breathing and difficulty feeding, and can be serious in small or premature babies.
• • Both are usually diagnosed from the typical story and examination, without needing many tests.