Croup

Exams and Tests

A doctor usually diagnoses croup from a physical examination and a medical history. During the physical examination, the doctor listens to your child's chest and back and looks for signs of inflammation or infection in the nose, ears, mouth, and throat. You will also be asked when your child's symptoms began, whether they have changed, and whether you have noticed any fever.

Special exams or tests usually are not needed to diagnose croup. But because the condition may cause difficulty breathing, a pulse oximeter may be placed on your child's finger, toe, or earlobe to check the amount of oxygen in the blood. In rare cases, an X-ray may be needed to look at the throat.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: June 11, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.