Croup – When to Worry and Seek Medical Attention for Your Child’s Cough and Breathing

When your child starts experiencing symptoms such as a barking cough and difficulty breathing, it can be alarming. These symptoms are often associated with a condition called croup, which affects the upper airways in children. While croup is usually not a cause for immediate concern, there are situations when you should seek medical help.

Croup is a viral infection that causes swelling in the airways, leading to a distinctive barking cough. Other symptoms of croup may include a hoarse voice, fever, and a harsh, high-pitched sound when breathing in, known as stridor. These symptoms are usually more pronounced at night.

Most cases of croup can be managed at home with simple measures such as keeping your child calm and upright, providing plenty of fluids, and using a humidifier to moisten the air. However, there are warning signs that indicate the need for medical attention. If your child has difficulty breathing, is struggling to speak or swallow, has a bluish color around the lips or face, or if the symptoms worsen rapidly, it is important to seek medical help immediately.

Knowing when to worry and seek medical help is crucial when your child has croup. To help you navigate through this, we have compiled a list of warning signs to watch for. Remember that each child is different, so it is important to trust your instincts and seek medical assistance if you are concerned about your child’s symptoms.

Croup Symptoms in Children

When a child has croup, there are several symptoms to look out for. It is important to know these symptoms in order to determine when to worry and seek medical help.

Common Symptoms of Croup

Here is a list of common symptoms associated with croup:

Symptom	Description
Barking cough	A cough that sounds like a seal or barking
Hoarseness	A raspy or strained voice
Stridor	A high-pitched sound when the child breathes in
Fever	An elevated body temperature

When to Worry and Seek Medical Help

If your child is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to monitor their condition closely. In some cases, croup can be mild and resolve on its own without treatment. However, there are situations where medical intervention is necessary.

You should seek medical help if:

• The child has difficulty breathing or swallowing
• The child’s skin appears blue or dusky
• The child is drooling excessively
• The child is extremely agitated or unusually lethargic
• The child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days

If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended to contact a healthcare professional immediately. They will be able to assess your child’s condition and provide appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Croup

Croup is a common childhood respiratory condition that typically affects children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. It is characterized by a harsh, barking cough and difficulty breathing. Croup is usually caused by a viral infection, most commonly the parainfluenza virus.

Other common causes of croup include:

1. Influenza: The flu can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to croup symptoms.
2. Rhinovirus: This common cold virus can also cause croup in some cases.
3. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV is a common cause of respiratory infections in young children and can lead to croup.
4. Adenovirus: Another common respiratory virus that can cause croup symptoms.

These viruses are often spread through respiratory droplets, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Children who come into contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces are at an increased risk of developing croup.

It is important to note that not all children who are exposed to these viruses will develop croup. Some children may have a higher susceptibility due to a weakened immune system or other underlying health conditions.

If you suspect your child may have croup, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess your child’s symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure proper breathing and oxygen supply.

How Croup Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing croup is typically done through a combination of physical examination and evaluation of symptoms. Your doctor will first listen to your child’s breathing and check for the characteristic cough and noisy breathing associated with croup.

In some cases, the doctor may order further tests, such as a throat swab or a chest X-ray, to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. However, these tests are usually not necessary for the diagnosis of croup.

During the examination, the doctor may also ask about your child’s medical history and any recent illnesses. Croup is most commonly caused by a viral infection, so it is important to let the doctor know if your child has been exposed to someone with a cold or flu.

If your child’s symptoms are severe or if they are having difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Croup can sometimes cause a blockage in the airway, which can be life-threatening. Signs of severe croup include high-pitched or stridor (a harsh, vibrating sound), retractions (visible pulling in of the chest with each breath), and difficulty speaking or swallowing.

It is better to seek medical help when in doubt, as prompt treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Croup

While most cases of croup can be managed at home, there are certain symptoms that you should watch out for that may indicate the need for medical attention for your child:

• If your child’s symptoms worsen, such as increased difficulty breathing or a change in their voice.
• If your child is having trouble swallowing or drooling excessively.
• If your child becomes pale, sweaty, or lethargic.
• If your child has a high fever (over 102°F or 39°C).
• If your child is unable to drink fluids or shows signs of dehydration.

If your child experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help. Croup can sometimes progress to a more serious condition, such as epiglottitis, which requires immediate medical attention and treatment. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child’s health.

Croup Treatment Options

When your child is experiencing croup, it is important to seek medical help as some cases can become severe and require immediate attention. However, there are also treatment options available that can help alleviate symptoms and improve your child’s breathing.

1. Moist or Cool Mist

One of the recommended treatments for croup is exposing your child to moist or cool mist. This can be achieved by running a humidifier in their room or taking them into a steamy bathroom. The moisture can help reduce inflammation in the airways and make breathing easier.

2. Hydration

Ensuring that your child stays hydrated is essential during their recovery from croup. Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, such as water or warm liquids like soup or tea. This helps keep the throat moist and can ease coughing.

3. Over-the-counter Medications

In some cases, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to help relieve fever and discomfort associated with croup. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before giving any medication to your child.

4. Rest and Comfort

It is crucial for your child to get enough rest while they recover from croup. Make sure they are comfortable and encourage them to take it easy. This allows their body to focus on fighting off the infection and promotes healing.

Remember, if your child is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, stridor at rest, or blue lips, you should seek immediate medical help. This list of treatment options is not exhaustive, and a healthcare professional will be able to provide proper guidance and treatment tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Preventing Croup in Children

To prevent croup in children and avoid the worry and distress it can cause, it is important to take certain precautions. Here is a list of measures that parents can take to help prevent croup:

• Keep your child away from people who have colds or upper respiratory infections, as these illnesses can lead to croup.
• Encourage good hand hygiene by teaching your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water.
• Make sure your child receives the recommended vaccinations, including the flu vaccine.
• Keep your child’s immune system strong by providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep.
• Avoid exposing your child to irritants such as tobacco smoke, which can make them more susceptible to croup.
• Stay calm and reassure your child when they are experiencing symptoms of croup, as stress can worsen their breathing difficulties.
• If your child is prone to croup, consider using a humidifier in their bedroom to keep the air moist.

By following these prevention strategies, parents can reduce the risk of their child developing croup and the need for medical interventions. However, it is important to remember that croup is a common childhood illness, and if your child does develop symptoms, it is essential to know when to seek medical help.

Long-Term Effects of Croup

Croup is a common childhood respiratory condition that typically affects children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. It is characterized by a harsh, barking cough and a hoarse voice due to inflammation of the upper airways.

While croup is usually a mild and self-limiting illness, it can cause some long-term effects in rare cases. These effects may occur if the child experiences severe or recurrent episodes of croup or if the condition is not properly treated.

Possible Long-Term Effects of Croup:
1. Chronic respiratory problems: Severe or recurrent episodes of croup can lead to long-term breathing difficulties, such as asthma or chronic cough.
2. Vocal cord damage: The inflammation of the upper airways during croup can potentially damage the vocal cords, resulting in long-term hoarseness or voice changes.
3. Sleep disruption: The coughing spells associated with croup can disrupt a child’s sleep, leading to long-term sleep issues and fatigue.
4. Emotional impact: The physical discomfort and fear associated with croup can have an emotional impact on a child, potentially leading to anxiety or other psychological effects.
5. Scarring of the airways: In rare cases, severe inflammation from croup can cause scarring of the airways, leading to long-term breathing difficulties.

It is important for parents to seek medical help and treatment when their child experiences croup symptoms. This can help prevent severe episodes and reduce the risk of long-term effects. If your child has difficulty breathing, appears very ill, has a high fever, or exhibits signs of dehydration, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, while croup can be frightening, most cases are mild and resolve on their own. However, it is crucial to monitor your child closely and seek medical help if you have any concerns about their condition or experience any of the long-term effects listed above.

Understanding the Risk Factors for Croup

Knowing the risk factors for croup can help parents and caregivers better understand when to seek medical help for their child. While croup is most common in children under the age of 5, there are certain factors that can increase a child’s risk of developing this respiratory condition:

Risk Factors	Description
Age	Croup is most common in children between 6 months and 3 years old.
Season	Croup tends to be more prevalent during the fall and winter months.
Family History	Children with a family history of croup or other respiratory conditions may be at a higher risk.
Exposure to Viruses	Croup is often caused by a viral infection, so children who are frequently exposed to viruses may have a higher risk.
Previous Episodes	If a child has had croup before, they may be more prone to experiencing it again.
Underlying Medical Conditions	Children with underlying conditions such as asthma or allergies may be more susceptible to croup.

It’s important to remember that these risk factors do not guarantee that a child will develop croup, but they can indicate an increased likelihood. If a child exhibits symptoms of croup, such as a barking cough and difficulty breathing, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

The Difference between Croup and Other Respiratory Infections

When it comes to respiratory infections in children, it can be difficult to determine the exact cause. However, there are a few key differences between croup and other respiratory infections that can help you identify the condition and seek appropriate medical help.

The Symptoms of Croup

Croup is a viral infection that affects the upper airway, particularly the vocal cords and windpipe. It commonly occurs in children between the ages of six months and three years. The main symptom of croup is a harsh, “barking” cough that often worsens at night. Other symptoms may include:

• Hoarseness or changes in the sound of your child’s voice
• A high-pitched or squeaky sound while breathing, known as stridor
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• A fever, although it is usually mild

The Symptoms of Other Respiratory Infections

Other respiratory infections, such as the common cold or bronchitis, may have similar symptoms to croup. However, there are a few key differences to look out for:

• Croup typically starts with a mild cold-like illness, including a runny nose and congestion.
• Croup is characterized by a distinct “barking” cough and stridor.
• Other respiratory infections may have a cough that is less severe or has a different sound.
• Other respiratory infections may also cause more widespread symptoms, such as body aches or a sore throat.

If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms of croup, it is important to seek medical help. While croup can often be managed at home with simple treatments, such as cool mist or steam from a hot shower, it is always best to have your child evaluated by a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

When Croup Becomes Life-Threatening

In most cases, croup is a common childhood illness that can be managed at home with simple treatments. However, there are instances when croup can become life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. It is important to be aware of the symptoms that indicate a worsening condition and know when to seek medical help.

If your child is experiencing severe difficulty breathing or shows signs of struggling to breathe, such as gasping for air, sucking in the chest with each breath, or an increased heart rate, it is crucial to seek medical assistance right away. These symptoms may suggest that the airway is narrowing significantly, making it harder for your child to breathe.

Another worrisome sign is a change in the color of your child’s skin, especially around the lips and nails. If the skin turns blue or dusky, this could indicate a lack of oxygen and necessitates immediate medical attention.

Furthermore, if your child becomes excessively lethargic, confused, or unresponsive, it is vital to seek emergency care. These symptoms may signify a lack of oxygen and neurological complications.

It is essential not to delay seeking medical help if your child experiences any of these severe symptoms. Prompt treatment can prevent life-threatening complications associated with croup and ensure the best possible outcome for your child.

Emergency Measures for Severe Croup

If your child is experiencing severe croup symptoms, it is important to take immediate action to ensure their breathing is not compromised.

Recognizing Severe Croup

Severe croup can be identified by the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• High-pitched whistling sound when inhaling (stridor)
• Bluish tint to the skin, lips, or nails
• Restlessness and agitation
• Difficulty swallowing or drooling

Emergency Measures

1. Stay calm and reassure your child
2. Immediately call 911 or your local emergency number
3. While waiting for help to arrive, sit your child upright
4. Create a steam-filled environment by running a hot shower or turning on a humidifier
5. Avoid using over-the-counter cough medications, as they may not be effective and could potentially worsen symptoms
6. Follow any specific instructions given by emergency personnel

Remember, it is important to seek medical attention right away when your child is experiencing severe croup symptoms. Prompt treatment can help alleviate their distress and ensure their well-being.

Alternative Therapies for Croup

While croup is usually a mild illness that can be managed at home, there are some alternative therapies that may help alleviate symptoms and support your child’s recovery. It’s important to note that these therapies should not replace medical treatment or delay seeking proper medical help.

Steam Therapy

One alternative therapy for croup is steam therapy, which involves creating a moist environment to help ease breathing. This can be done by sitting with your child in a steam-filled bathroom, running a hot shower to create steam, or using a humidifier in the child’s room. Breathing in the moist air can help relieve the symptoms of croup.

Hydration

Keeping your child hydrated is important when they have croup. Offer them plenty of fluids, such as water or warm clear liquids, to help soothe their throat and keep them hydrated. Avoid giving them cold or carbonated drinks, as these can irritate their throat further.

In addition to these alternative therapies, it’s important to keep an eye on your child’s symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen or if you notice any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Retractions (when the skin between the ribs, above the collarbones, or in the neck sinks in with each breath)
• Severe or persistent coughing
• High fever
• Blue or gray discoloration around the lips, mouth, or face
• Extreme fatigue or difficulty staying awake

Symptom	When to Worry
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing	If your child is struggling to breathe or their breathing is getting faster
Retractions	If you notice the skin sinking in between the ribs, above the collarbones, or in the neck with each breath
Severe or persistent coughing	If your child has a cough that is severe or doesn’t improve
High fever	If your child has a fever above 102°F (38.9°C) or if it persists for more than a few days
Blue or gray discoloration around the lips, mouth, or face	If your child’s lips, mouth, or face appear blue or gray
Extreme fatigue or difficulty staying awake	If your child is unusually tired or has difficulty staying awake

Remember, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for your child’s croup symptoms.

Coping with a Child’s Croup Diagnosis

When your child is diagnosed with croup, it can be a worrisome and stressful experience. Croup is a common childhood condition that causes swelling and inflammation in the airways, leading to symptoms such as a barking cough, hoarse voice, and difficulty breathing.

Understanding the Symptoms

It is important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of croup so that you can recognize them. The main sign is a harsh, barking cough that sounds like a seal or a dog. Your child may also have a hoarse voice and difficulty breathing, especially at night. It is important to remember that croup symptoms can vary in severity, and not all children will experience the same symptoms.

List of Coping Strategies

Here are some coping strategies that may help you and your child navigate a croup diagnosis:

1. Stay calm: It is natural to feel worried, but try to stay calm and reassure your child that they will be okay.
2. Monitor breathing: Keep an eye on your child’s breathing, and seek medical help if their breathing becomes rapid, shallow, or labored.
3. Follow the treatment plan: Your child’s doctor may prescribe medications or recommend home remedies to help manage your child’s symptoms. It is important to follow their guidance and give the medication as prescribed.
4. Use a cool mist humidifier: Moist air can help ease your child’s breathing and reduce coughing. Consider using a cool mist humidifier in your child’s room.
5. Create a soothing environment: Provide a calm and comfortable environment for your child by using soft lighting, playing gentle music, or reading a favorite storybook.
6. Keep your child hydrated: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, which can help loosen mucus and ease coughing.

Remember, if you have any concerns about your child’s croup diagnosis or their symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical help. Your child’s healthcare provider can provide guidance and support during this time.

Supporting Your Child during Croup Treatment

When your child is diagnosed with croup, it is important to provide them with the necessary support during their treatment. Croup is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as a barking cough, hoarse voice, and difficulty breathing.

Recognize the Symptoms

To support your child during croup treatment, it is crucial to be familiar with the symptoms. Watch out for a hoarse voice, barking cough, and noisy breathing. These symptoms may worsen at night, causing your child to have difficulty breathing.

Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child

Seeing your child struggling to breathe can be alarming, but it is important to stay calm and reassure them. Your child may feel scared or anxious, so provide them with comfort and let them know that they are safe.

Elevate Your Child’s Head

Elevating your child’s head can help ease their breathing. Use a pillow or prop up the head of their bed to create a slight incline. This will help reduce the severity of the symptoms and provide some relief.

Provide Plenty of Fluids

Make sure your child stays hydrated by offering them plenty of fluids. This can help soothe their throat and alleviate coughing. Offer water, warm fluids like tea or chicken soup, and avoid giving them sugary drinks that can aggravate their symptoms.

Use a Humidifier

Using a humidifier in your child’s room can help moisten the air, making it easier for them to breathe. Moist air can help relieve the discomfort caused by croup symptoms and aid in their recovery.

Follow the Doctor’s Advice

Lastly, always follow the doctor’s advice and complete the prescribed treatment. This may include administering medication, such as oral steroids or using a nebulizer. It is essential to adhere to the treatment plan to ensure your child recovers fully and quickly from croup.

• Recognize the symptoms of croup.
• Stay calm and reassure your child.
• Elevate your child’s head.
• Provide plenty of fluids.
• Use a humidifier.
• Follow the doctor’s advice.

Dealing with Recurrent Croup

If your child has experienced croup more than once, it can be concerning and may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Recurrent croup refers to a child having multiple episodes of croup within a short period of time. While most cases of croup are mild and can be managed at home, recurrent croup may require medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Help

If your child experiences any of the following symptoms during an episode of croup, it is important to seek medical help:

1. Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
2. Severe stridor (a high-pitched sound when breathing)
3. Retractions (visible pulling of the skin between the ribs and around the neck during breathing)
4. Cyanosis (bluish coloration of the lips and face)

These symptoms can indicate a more severe case of croup and may require immediate medical attention.

Treatment for Recurrent Croup

If your child is experiencing recurrent croup, it is important to consult their healthcare provider for an evaluation. The healthcare provider will assess your child’s symptoms, medical history, and may recommend further tests or referrals to a specialist if necessary.

Treatment options for recurrent croup may include:

• Administering oral or inhaled corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation
• Prescribing medications to help relieve symptoms such as coughing and breathing difficulties
• Suggesting measures to keep your child’s airways moist, such as using a cool-mist humidifier
• Discussing strategies to prevent future episodes, such as avoiding triggers like cold air or respiratory infections

It is important to closely follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations and to seek medical help whenever your child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment. Recurrent croup can be a cause for concern, but with proper medical management, most children can recover and lead healthy lives.

Managing Croup Symptoms at Home

If your child has been diagnosed with croup, there are steps you can take at home to help manage their symptoms and provide relief. It’s important to remember that while these home remedies can be effective, it’s still crucial to seek medical help if your child’s symptoms worsen or if they are having difficulty breathing.

1. Stay calm and reassure your child

Croup can be a scary experience for both you and your child, but it’s important to stay calm and provide reassurance. Letting your child know that you are there to help them and that everything will be okay can help reduce their anxiety and improve their breathing.

2. Utilize cool mist or humidifiers

Cool mist from a humidifier or running a hot shower can help alleviate croup symptoms, as it helps soothe the airways and reduce coughing. Make sure to place the humidifier in your child’s room and keep it clean to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

3. Create a steam-filled bathroom

If your child is experiencing severe croup symptoms, creating a steam-filled bathroom can help improve their breathing. Close the windows and doors, turn on the shower to the hottest setting, and sit with your child in the steam-filled room for about 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.

4. Encourage fluid intake

Offer your child plenty of fluids, such as water or warm liquids like herbal tea or soup, to help soothe their throat and keep them hydrated. Avoid giving them cold drinks or acidic beverages, as these can irritate their airways and worsen their symptoms.

5. Keep your child upright

When your child is sleeping or resting, prop them up with pillows or elevate their head to a 45-degree angle. This helps improve breathing and can reduce coughing and congestion.

6. Avoid irritants

It’s important to minimize exposure to irritants that can trigger croup symptoms. Avoid smoking or exposing your child to secondhand smoke, as well as strong odors, perfumes, or air pollution.

Remember, while these home remedies can help alleviate croup symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical help if your child’s symptoms worsen or if they have difficulty breathing. Your child’s healthcare provider can assess their condition and provide appropriate treatment.

When Croup Symptoms Persist

While most cases of croup can be managed at home with simple remedies, there are times when it is important to seek medical help for your child. One such situation is when croup symptoms persist despite adequate home care.

If your child is still experiencing symptoms such as a barking cough, difficulty breathing, or a hoarse voice after a few days of home treatment, it is important not to ignore these signs. Persistent symptoms may indicate a more severe case of croup that requires medical attention.

It is particularly crucial to seek medical help if your child is struggling to breathe or showing signs of respiratory distress. These signs may include rapid breathing, retractions (when the skin between the ribs pulls in), or a bluish color around the lips or face.

When you take your child to the doctor or pediatrician, they may perform a physical examination to assess the severity of the croup symptoms. They may listen to your child’s breathing, check their oxygen levels, and possibly order additional tests such as a chest X-ray or a throat swab to rule out other possible causes of their symptoms.

Depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms, the doctor may recommend treatments such as oral steroids to reduce airway inflammation, breathing treatments to relieve symptoms, or, in severe cases, hospitalization for closer monitoring and additional interventions.

Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child’s health. If you are ever unsure or concerned about their breathing or croup symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical help. Timely intervention can help prevent complications and ensure your child receives the proper care they need.

Question and answer:

Is croup a serious condition?

Croup is usually a mild condition that can be treated at home. However, in some cases, it can become severe and require medical intervention. It is important to monitor the symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen or if there are signs of respiratory distress.

What are the symptoms of croup?

The most common symptoms of croup include a barking cough, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms may include a high-pitched sound when breathing in (stridor), fever, and a runny nose. It is important to note that croup symptoms can vary in severity.

When should I be concerned about my child’s croup?

You should be concerned about your child’s croup if they are having difficulty breathing, making a high-pitched sound when inhaling (stridor), or if their lips or face turn blue. These are signs of respiratory distress and you should seek immediate medical help.

What are the treatment options for croup?

Treatment for croup often includes using a humidifier or taking your child into a steamy bathroom to help ease their breathing. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be given to help reduce fever and discomfort. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medication such as steroids or epinephrine to help open up the airways.

Can croup be prevented?

Croup is most commonly caused by viral infections, so it can be difficult to prevent. However, practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help reduce the risk of catching the viruses that can cause croup.

How do I know if my child has croup?

Croup is usually accompanied by a loud, barking cough that sounds like a seal. Other symptoms may include a hoarse voice, difficulty breathing, and a fever. If you notice these symptoms in your child, it is best to consult a doctor.

Is croup contagious?

Yes, croup is highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person. It is caused by a viral infection, usually the parainfluenza virus, which can be transmitted through respiratory droplets.

When should I seek medical help for croup?

If your child is having difficulty breathing, making high-pitched breathing sounds, or showing signs of severe distress, it is important to seek medical help immediately. These symptoms may indicate a more severe case of croup and require urgent medical attention.

What are the treatment options for croup?

The treatment for croup depends on the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases can often be managed at home with humidified air, staying hydrated, and providing over-the-counter pain relievers. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids or administer nebulized epinephrine to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.