Q: Can croup develop suddenly with a barking cough but no other symptoms like a fever?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

Can croup occur suddenly without any other symptoms? My older child is currently being treated for a cold accompanied by a cough and high fever. It seems like my younger child has caught it, but they do not have a fever. They just started coughing, and right after waking up from a nap, they suddenly began making an intermittent barking sound. Is it possible for croup to start suddenly without a fever or other symptoms? I am unsure whether I should take them to a regular clinic or head straight to the emergency room.

Answer:

Yes, croup can appear suddenly even without other prior symptoms. Viral transmission between siblings is very common, and it is a classic pattern for croup symptoms to start abruptly after a nap or during the night.

Please check the following right now:

• Do you hear a high-pitched whistling or wheezing sound (stridor) when your child breathes?

• Is the skin around their chest or neck pulling in (retractions) when they inhale?

• Does the child seem anxious, unusually restless, or are they struggling to breathe?

Where to seek care:

• Go to the Emergency Room: If the child is having difficulty breathing, making a high-pitched breathing sound even when resting, or if their lips or face look pale.

• Visit a regular pediatrician: If they only have a barking cough but appear comfortable and are breathing easily.

Immediate steps you can take at home to help soothe the airway:

1. Run a hot shower, close the bathroom door, and sit with your child in the steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes.

2. Let them breathe in cool, moist air (open a window or step outside briefly).

3. Hold the child in a calm, upright position, as lying down can make symptoms worse.

Because croup symptoms tend to worsen at night, it is highly recommended to have your child evaluated by a doctor today to be safe. Since your older child is also sick, it would be a good idea to have both of them examined by your pediatrician.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us