What is a common supportive treatment for croup infections?

Humidified oxygen is commonly used as a supportive treatment for croup infections because it helps alleviate the symptoms associated with airway inflammation and constriction. Croup, which is typically caused by viral infections, often leads to swelling in the upper airway, resulting in a characteristic "barking" cough and stridor (a high-pitched wheezing sound).

By providing humidified air, the moisture helps to soothe the irritated tissues in the airway, reduces viscosity of secretions, and can make breathing easier for the patient. This treatment does not directly address the viral infection itself but supports the patient's breathing and comfort during the illness, which is crucial in managing croup.

While other treatments can be utilized in the management of croup, such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and potentially nebulized epinephrine for severe cases, humidified oxygen specifically addresses the immediate symptom relief for distress due to airway swelling.