Q: Can my 5-year-old child have croup again tonight even after receiving steroid treatment for the flu?

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Question:

Hello doctor. My 5-year-old child was diagnosed with the flu on Monday morning. By 9 PM that night, their fever spiked to over 40°C, so we went to the ER and they received a fever-reducing injection.

Early Tuesday morning, my child showed symptoms of croup. We used our home nebulizer, and then went straight to the pediatrician at 8 AM. The doctor gave them a steroid injection and prescribed oral steroids. My child took the oral steroids at lunch and dinner.

However, in the evening, they kept complaining that it was hard to breathe, so I gave them an additional Pulmicort nebulizer treatment before they went to sleep. Even now, while sleeping, they are making a slight barking cough...

Is it possible for the croup to come back tonight or early tomorrow morning, even though they have taken steroid medication?

Answer:

Hello. I completely understand how worried you must be watching your child suffer from croup.

Yes, croup symptoms can recur even during steroid treatment. This is especially true when it is accompanied by the flu.

【Check right now】

• Does the chest retract (pull in) when breathing?

• Are the colors of their lips and nails normal?

• Are they more comfortable sitting up rather than lying down?

【Preparation for tonight】

1. Keep a humidifier on (if you don't have one, run hot water in the bathroom to create steam).

2. Elevate their head while sleeping (using about 2 pillows).

3. Have the nebulizer ready for immediate use.

4. Keep the room temperature cool (20-22°C).

🚨 Go to the Emergency Room immediately if:

→ You hear stridor (high-pitched wheezing) + chest retractions

→ They have difficulty breathing even while sitting up

→ They have trouble speaking or swallowing saliva

→ They appear anxious, restless, and are struggling to breathe

Croup typically lasts for 3 to 5 days, and the second night is often the most severe. The steroids are taking effect, but symptoms can still worsen at night, so please keep a very close eye on your child.

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