Should I take my son to a parade?

Question

My son has croup (which is some form of a cold from my understanding from the doctor). He is almost 3. My familiy has scheduled a parade for us to be at. I live in Ohio where it is 57 degrees outside. The parade is tonight. My instincts tell me no but when I called his doctor she said that he would be fine outside for a couple of hours and if started to get worst to take him home. I just don't know what to do.

Answer 1

My pediatrician actually ENCOURAGED me to take my son into the cool evening air when he had colds, etc. It helps clear the nasal passages and can help shrink enflamed tissues in the throat, apparently.

Another benefit to being outside is that the germs don't get concentrated outside like they do in your home, so you'll both be breathing less-germy air.

Benefit #3- Getting out of the house can be a good morale booster for you, and a GREAT distraction for your son. Taking both of your minds of his icky feelings can be a big help on the road to recovery.

Put your mind at ease, and GO HAVE FUN!

Answer 2

I would say YES to take him to the parade. When my daughter had croup at 14 mos I remember my dr. telling me to take her outside in the cool air. (this was in October) That the dry air in the house could be making it worse. Remember that croup isn't contageous but the virus that causes it is. so just keep him away from other kids and you should be fine. Like you said, if it gets bad just go home - at least you tried.

Answer 3

croup is a form of brohnchitis it bcomes worse if the weather is cold or if the child bcomes upset for very bad cases a liquid steriod[called prednasone] is given as well as panadol they also so recommend rest and not to over excite the child as this causes the child to breathe heavier and then they cough [or bark] this isnt serious is treated well signs of seriousness is when ur child breathes in his/her chest will look as if it is caving in it this happens see a doctor for a steriod syrup. but if u fell that u want to go to the parade just make sure ur baby is warm enuff

Answer 4

first of all, DO NOT APPLY VAPOR RUB IF YOU ARE TAKING YOUR SON OUTSIDE!!! secondly, i'm certain that i would keep him home, to avoid his getting worse, or spreading the illness to another child. it will be even colder out tonite, and while a brief moment in the air may help loosen up some congestion, sitting for a parade may be too long for him. i'm sure the doc knows what he's talking about, but i would follow my gut and go with my instincts.

Answer 5

if your doctor said a little while would be ok, then you should be fine. Just do not prolong your outside visit. But also if you want to remain totally safe then listen to your instincts. You are a good parent to be worried, and that will make you pick the right thing. have fun

Answer 6

Croup can be very dangerous. My son had it and it was like pins and needles the whole time he was sick. Cold weather makes it worse since the mucus becomes thicker. If you do go, make sure that you put VIcks on his back, chest, nose and throat and wrap the areas with warm clothes. If he starts coughing, it helps to keep them in a hot shower or with a warm mist vaporizer.

Answer 7

The most important thing to consider when you make this decision is ...How he is feeling? Does he even feel like going? If not, then you should keep him home whether your family has plans for you or not. If he feels okay then just make sure he is dressed appropriately for the weather, in something that will keep him warm enough but not make him too hot either and go have fun!

Answer 8

Just wait until tonight until right before the parade and see how he's doing. If he looks like he'd be able to handle it then take him. Take a stroller so he can sit or lay down if he starts feeling bad.

Answer 9

when my daughter was about 4mo. she was diagnose with croup also. and it turned out that she had asthma so I would get an second opion first.and if it is asthma all he will need is albeuterol or what best suit him. he will be find because my daughter is 7 now.and she loves to play outside in the winter.

Answer 10

In my experience, I have learned that you can't just keep them inside and away from being sick all the time. If we did do that, they would never build up immunity to any diseases. I think that you should take him. Keep him dressed warmly and bring a blanket. I have two children (now 2 and 4) and we have sat outside in the cold and watched fireworks before where we live in Michigan. Take him out, he'll enjoy himself.