The school year has started – and so has the season of certain sniffles

WE’RE beginning to see more sniffles around the surgery. Well, it is the season.

Season perhaps isn’t the right word, though, as the weather isn’t really to blame.

Children are back at school – and schools are like biological laboratories for things such as the common cold.

The viruses are picked up in the playground and then spread to the whole family – including younger siblings. Which is why we’re starting to see more croup. It’s a condition which tends to affect young children between one and three years old in their voice box and windpipe.

As children get older this area grows and firms up, so croup is uncommon over six.

It’s caused by several different viruses which normally result only in a cough or sore throat in an older child or adult.

Croup causes a cough which sounds quite distinctive. As it affects the voicebox, the cough is harsh and barking.

There can be a bit of inflammation of the windpipe which, along with some excess mucus, can make breathing noisy.

Croup is often mild but symptoms can get worse in the evening, so parents can expect a sleepless night or two as it can be quite uncomfortable for the wee one.

If breathing becomes difficult then sit the child upright in your lap and give them cool air and drinks, if they want them.

Paracetamol or ibuprofen, if they can take it, might help too.

If breathing becomes more difficult or the child is struggling then they should see a doctor quickly.

A single steroid dose may be given to help reduce inflammation in the throat, while more severe cases may need a short hospital admission.