In Recurrent Pediatric Croup, Reflux A Possible Factor

Main Category: Acid Reflux / GERD
Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health;  Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 23 Sep 2008 - 2:00 PDT

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Children who suffer from several occurrences of croup should be evaluated for reflux disorders, says new research presented at the 2008 American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in Chicago, IL.

Croup is characterized by a loud cough that may sound like the barking of a seal. It may be accompanied by fast or difficult breathing, and sometimes a grunting noise or wheezing while breathing. The symptoms of croup can be very upsetting to parents and caregivers, as they may be mistaken for choking or other serious airway issues.

It has been commonly believed that croup is caused by a virus, however, upper airway complications have also been suggested. Researchers did an airway evaluation on 80 children who had recurrent croup to see if there had been any narrowing in the upper airways which could indicate reflux. Of the patients who had narrowing in the airway (33 percent), 19 of those (73 percent) also manifested laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Researchers noted many episodes of croup could be averted if it was determined that reflux was a component of the patient's diagnosis and proper preventive treatment could be prescribed.

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Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.
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Title: Etiology of Pediatric Recurrent Croup
Presenters: Harlan R Muntz, MD; Ryan VanWoerkom, MD
Date: September 21, 2008

About the AAO-HNS

The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org/), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's vision: "Empowering otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons to deliver the best patient care."

Source: Jessica Mikulski
American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery