Croup

We are currently seeing cases of croup, a viral respiratory illness that most often is caused by the parainfluenza virus. The cough and breathing that are associated with croup make it distinctly different from other viral colds or respiratory illnesses. This is because the parainfluenza virus infects and irritates the voice box, the vocal cords, and the windpipe. The cough is worse at night, and it has a distinct bark that sounds much like a seal's bark. Associated with the barky cough, your child may have difficulty when inhaling air, making a labored and whistling sound when breathing in -- called stridor. Humidified air and fluids often are the most helpful treatments.Please call the office to have your child evaluated by the doctor if he/she has symptoms of croup.


For more information: See also Cough, It doesn't sound like croup, see Cough, See also Croup, Tight purring sound when breathing out, see Wheezing (Other Than Asthma)

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Exciting and free opportunity to learn from a nationally-known pediatric sleep specialist

By Laura Windham • August 2, 2026
Exciting and free opportunity to learn from a nationally-known pediatric sleep specialist Join us for “My Baby Won’t Sleep,” an informative and engaging talk by Dr. Sanjay Kansagra. He is the director of the Duke Pediatric Neurology Sleep Program, inventor of Lullabee, author of "My Child Won't Sleep," and a social media educator @thatsleepdoc Who: Expectant parents and parents of young infants What: A parent-focused discussion of sleep for babies When: August 4, 2026, at 5:30 pm Where: Chapel Hill Children and Adolescents’ Clinic Why: To provide you with the tools and understanding you need for a better night's sleep Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45AFAD2EA3F94-64616831-infant . You may share this with friends who are expecting a baby soon. Light snacks provided