Croup

Why it works: Honey can soothe coughs. Multiple RCTs show a bedtime dose of honey reduces cough frequency/severity in children with viral URIs compared with placebo or some OTC syrups. This is t...

Instructions: Who can have it: Children ≥12 months only (risk of infant botulism under 1 year). CDC. How much: The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests ½–1 teaspoon (2–5 mL) as needed, often...

Warnings: Never in infants <12 months — risk of infant botulism. CDC. Don’t delay proven croup care. If your c...

Studies: Cochrane Review (2018): Across six small RCTs, honey reduced...

Why it works: Croup = subglottic swelling. In viral croup, the airway just below the vocal cords (the narrowest part in young kids) becomes inflamed and edematous, causing the classic “seal-bark...

Instructions: These steps mirror how it was done in the randomized trial and what major paediatric centres advise:. Get medical care started. • If a clinician has prescribed dexamethasone, give...

Warnings: Adjunct only: Use cold-air exposure with, not instead of, evidence-based therapy (steroids ± nebulis...

Studies: Randomized controlled trial (2023, Pediatrics): 118 children...

Why it works: Humidified air (including steam or cool-mist) has not been shown to improve croup scores or speed recovery in clinical trials. It can be used as a comfort measure at home, but it s...

Instructions: Choose cool-mist, not warm/steam. Hot vaporizers/steam can burn children; many authorities specifically advise against steam rooms for croup. nhs.uk. • Place safely & keep child ca...

Warnings: Burn/scald risk: Avoid warm-mist/steam and “steamy bathroom” methods—guidelines advise against steam...

Studies: Cochrane review (humidified air for croup): No meaningful im...