Health Tip: If Your Child Has Croup

(HealthDay News) -- Croup tends to occur between 3 months and 5 years of age, the American Academy of Pediatrics says.

Most common in autumn and winter, it causes swelling of the voice box and windpipe. This leads to a bark-like cough.

Most instances of croup resolve on their own, but occasionally it can lead to complications that require a visit to the ER.

The academy suggests calling a doctor if your child has these symptoms:

• A whistling sound that gets louder with each breath.
• Inability to breathe or speak easily.
• Bluish lips or fingernails.
• Drooling.
• Difficulty swallowing saliva.