Results from a randomized controlled trial presented in Pediatrics indicates that exposing children with laryngotracheobronchitis/acute viral laryngotracheitis to cold, outdoor air (<10°C or <50°F) can be beneficial in reducing symptoms when used as an adjunct to oral dexamethasone. Children in the trial were aged 3 months to 10 years and were seen in a tertiary pediatric emergency department, where they received a single dose of 0.6 mg/kg oral dexamethasone. The group of patients who were exposed to cold air for 30 minutes demonstrated greater symptom improvement compared to another group of patients who remained indoors, where the air temperature ranged from 75.2°F to 77°F (24°C to 25°C).
Why it matters: Even though most cases of croup are mild, the study cites evidence that they account for as much as 5% of annual pediatric emergency visits. According to the article, this is the first study showing evidence of the benefits of cold-air exposure for children with mild to moderate croup symptoms, but further studies are needed.