Croup During Pregnancy – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are the Causes of Croup During Pregnancy?

Croup is caused by various viruses, mainly the parainfluenza virus. However, here are the most common causes of catching croup during pregnancy

• Viral infection due to contamination in the air
• Inflammation in the epiglottis
• Accidental food entry into the windpipe
• Chemical inhalation by mistake can lead to disturbances in the air passage
• Acid reflux during pregnancy
• Allergies to environmental substances

What Are the Symptoms of Croup?

The symptoms of croup usually begin mild and gradually and worsen within 2 to 3 days. They typically resemble the symptoms of common coughs and colds.

Here are a few major symptoms of croup during pregnancy

• A harsh cough along with a barking sound
• Noisy breathing, or a whistling sound while breathing
• Redness in eyes
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or blocked nose
• Fever and runny nose

But, contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like

• Persistent and concerning sounds while breathing
• A feeling of anxiety
• Breathing difficulties

[Read : Stuffy Nose During Pregnancy]

How is Croup Diagnosed During Pregnancy?

The general diagnosis of croup during pregnancy is based on the symptoms like fever, hard breathing with a hoarse voice, cough, and cold.  Further tests may include blood tests with chest X-rays, pulse detection, etc. 

But, since pregnancy is a delicate time, your doctor may prescribe mild pain relief medications to treat croup and related symptoms that can cause discomfort during pregnancy. 

How to Treat Croup During Pregnancy?

Talk to your doctor about how you can alleviate the symptoms at home. Doctors will not prefer prescribing medications if the condition is not so severe.  

Here is what you can do to treat mild croup at home 

• Keep yourself hydrated
• Ensure a healthy and balanced diet
• Take steam inhalation 

In a few cases, your doctor may prescribe an oxygen mask to ensure an adequate oxygen supply. However, talk to your doctor before trying any home remedies to treat croup during pregnancy. 

How to Prevent Croup During Pregnancy? 

Here are a few ways you can prevent contracting croup when you are pregnant

• Wash your hands with a mild fragrance-free soap frequently
• Wear a mask to avoid contracting an infection
• Avoid using chemical-based products
• Try to avoid sharing your things 
• Always cover your nose and mouth while coughing.

Pregnancy is a delicate time, and it is hard to avoid falling sick in a long nine-month stretch. Your immunity will be low, and you may contract infections. But, ensure to inform your doctor if you notice any flu-related symptoms that are concerning. 

[Read : 10 Most Common Infections During Pregnancy]

FAQ’s

1. Can Croup Hurt an Unborn Baby?

Croup is an infection caused by viruses like, influenza, para influenza, etc, Mild croup usually doesn’t harm. But if you have any severe persisting symptoms, it may affect both, the mother and the unbaby. So, proper treatment should be taken to get relief.

2. How Many Days Does Croup Last in Pregnant Women?

Croup is caused due to a viral infection, and is not very uncommon in pregnant women. In mild cases, it may take 2-3 days to become normal. But in severe cases, it may take a few weeks to cure as it may get worsen day by day.

Read Also: Dry Cough During Pregnancy – Causes, Treatment And Prevention