My 4yr old was sick 5 weeks ago and the cough stayed but very light, this morning it was barky and runny stuffy nose. what to do? trouble breathing

Severity of breathin: If you see him pulling his abomen, neck, or chest to breath, seek medical attention. Keep in mind kids get sick approx 1x/month. 1st make sure he is breathing comfortably otherwise seek medical attenion. 2nd, make sure he stays hydrated. Give water, pedialyte but not soft drinks. If in doubt, seek medical attention.

Barky cough: Immediately i would try a steam shower treatment. Go in bathroom, close door, and run hot shower so room steams up big time. Sit in there and read books or play for 15-20 minutes. If this does not help, then you need to see your doc today. I never like 5 weeks of cough without it being checked again, and anytime you mention trouble breathing, i get a bit more nervous. Try shower first, then decide.

This is croup.: Barky cough indicates narrowing of the upper airway in the neck. In adults it causes laryngitis and in kids, stridor, a low pitched wheeze or hum with inspiration. It is due to a cold virus and your child's stuffy nose is another indication of a new cold virus. It is rarely an emergency and a full dose of Ibuprofen (10mg per kg) every 8 hours will generally relieve the swelling. If not, see a doc.