Croup refers to a viral infection that occurs in the wind pipe and the larynx. The infection further causes a person to cough in a harsh, repetitive way. Croup is more common in children than in adults.


The coughing sound which is caused by croup resembles the bark of a seal, which can be quite scary for children, as well as adults. Croup in children can cause them to wake up at night and can leave them gasping for breath. Fortunately, this condition is not really serious and can easily be treated by using home remedies for croup.


There are certain prescription medicines that are available too, but most parents prefer treating the condition at home.

Given below are some common home remedies for croup in children:

• Crying aggravates the coughing and therefore, in case of children, it is important to keep them calm. You could do so by distracting them if necessary, which includes reading to them or playing some games.  

• A cool air humidifier in the child’s room can help alleviate milder forms of croup. However, it is important to make sure that the humidifier is cleaned regularly or else it can make the condition worse.

• Breathing cool and fresh air is very important and therefore it may be beneficial to take the child out for a walk, to get some fresh air.

• Keep the child seated in an upright position to make breathing easier. The child could be held in the lap or could remain seated in an infant seat or chair.

• Avoid letting the child sleeping on a flat surface. It is better for the child to sleep in a reclining position to facilitate breathing. The bed can be set on an incline or two pillows can be placed under the child’s head.

• Plenty of rest is required in order to fight the infection. Therefore, the child should not be allowed to participate in any strenuous physical activities. A child suffering from croup should get adequate amounts of sleep.

• Infants suffering from croup should drink plenty of water or other fluids like breast milk or warm formula milk. Older children should drink a lot of soups or warm milk. Frozen fruit pops may also have a soothing effect on croup in older children.

Several cases of croup seem to improve through the day, only to get much worse at night. This is not a cause for concern, as it is absolutely normal. In case the coughing does not improve after a few days, it may be best to consult the child’s pediatrician.