Croup More Serious Form
Sources:
Papers On Health
This is caused by an accumulation of
material in the windpipe, which is coughed up in pieces of pipe-like
substance, and which, if not removed, threatens suffocation. For
treatment, first give sips of hot water (distilled water is best)
frequently. We have seen only five teaspoonfuls of this taken by a
child followed by the throwing off of such a quantity of matter from
the throat as had nearly caused suffocation. The
urther treatment is
the bran poultice between the shoulders, and cold cloths on the chest,
as prescribed in the article on Bronchitis. These may not cure in all
cases, but will do so in many apparently otherwise hopeless. The moment
the symptoms are perceived, treatment should be begun, as this disease
is very rapid in its progress.
When an actual attack of croup of this kind comes on, and is severe, it
is usual to put the child in a warm bath. If the water is a little
below blood heat, and laved on the back, this will go far to relieve;
but it will not have a tenth of the effect which a cold towel will
have, if placed along the spine. It is indeed wonderful how spasms and
the various forms of cramp give way to this. When a little warm olive
oil is first rubbed on and then off, there is no danger of cold or of
any bad effect (see Cramp in Stomach). If this croup is obstinate,
there may be more serious disease of the throat, and good medical
advice should be had.