The Croup That She Survived

In my recent post, I had mentioned that I will share about Isabelle's first experience with croup. Here goes the story :

6 April 2010

The ordeal started with a fever, cough and mild sore throat. Pediatrician prescribed antibiotic.

8 April 2010

It got worse on the 3rd day when Isabelle lost her voice almost totally and had difficulty breathing. She was also gasping for air everytime she breathes. We rushed her to her pediatrician clinic again and he confirmed that it was croup. CROUP? Had no slight idea what that was. We were referred to a KPJ hospital (nearest to our home) A&E and Isabelle was treated with nebulizer immediately and instantly, she could breath easier. Throughout the stay, she had her 4 hourly nebulizer. And so.. this admission marks her 11th month of life... (Happy 11 month old sweetie Isabelle).

Of course, being just a 11 month old baby, Isabelle struggled each time she needs to inhale via the nebulizer. But after a few times, it got a little easier and half of the time, she fell asleep while inhaling. However, it is always a challenge to feed her medicine. All of us have to put on a monkey show to distract her.

Isabelle sleeping soundly despite the IV on her wrist

Signs of recovering - playing with mobile phone

11 April 2010

Pediatrician gave green light for Isabelle to go home! Hallelujah that the end of 4 nights stay at the hospital has came to an end. The room was comfortable and the hospital staff were wonderful but who would want to stay a minute longer in a hospital!

That was the first time she fell sick and it sent her to hospital straight. Yes... what an experience. But above all, we thank God that she survived, recovered with no hiccups and for all the support and love from our family. We are proud of our little precious that she went through it.

Looking healthy and active again!

* Croup, also termed laryngotracheitis or laryngotracheobronchitis, is a viral respiratory tract infection. It is primarily a pediatric illness and, as its alternative names indicate, generally affects the larynx and trachea but may also extend to the bronchi. It is the most common etiology for stridor in febrile children. It is a common pediatric illness, with the vast majority of children recovering with no consequences; however, it may be life-threatening. Croup manifests as hoarseness, a seal-like barking cough and a variable degree of respiratory distress. However, morbidity is secondary to narrowing of the larynx and trachea below the level of the glottis, causing the hallmark inspiratory stridor.