What is a common treatment for croup?

Humidified oxygen is a common treatment for croup because it helps to soothe the airway and reduce inflammation in the tissues surrounding the vocal cords, which are often swollen in croup cases. When children with croup experience narrowing of the upper airway, the addition of humidity to the inhaled air can ease their breathing difficulties by keeping airway secretions moist and preventing them from becoming too thick and obstructive.

In croup, the underlying issue is typically viral, and while oral steroids may also be used to reduce inflammation, humidified oxygen is often administered as an immediate, supportive therapy prior to any medications. This makes it an essential intervention in managing the acute symptoms of croup, especially in cases where there is significant stridor or respiratory distress.

The use of antibiotics is not appropriate since croup is usually caused by viral infections, while saline nebulizers, although they may provide some moisture, do not specifically target the inflammation as effectively as humidified oxygen in the acute management of croup symptoms.