Croup just won't go away. Our doctors have their offices full.

Dr. Steven Reich with Evans Army Hospital on Fort Carson said that's what's dominating his schedule right now. Symptoms include congestion, fever, difficulty breathing, barking cough and hoarseness. It usually lasts less than a week. You can help with a humidifier, steam from a hot shower and over the counter meds for the fever. But you'll want to watch for dehydration. And if things get worse, go to the doctor.

Dr. Reich also wants to warn us about an issue that will show up as we heat our houses more. He says he's starting to see more kids coming in with dry, itchy, scaly skin. And dry skin itches, so as kids scratch, it. That further irritates the skin and causes more itching. He recommends that you bathe your children no more than 3 times a Week; use warm rather than hot water, and try to use mild soap where soap is needed. He also says there are a lot of good moisturizing lotions on the market. But Dr. Reich says try to avoid anything scented, because the perfumes can be irritating for some children. He says to use lotion daily, especially after a bath or shower. But if that doesn't work, see your doctor. It's good advice for all of us.