What is a Whooping Cough? What are its Symptoms and its Treatment?

This respiratory infection is caused by a specific type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. Whooping cough is generally indicated by coughing spells that are often followed by a peculiar intake of air that produces a whooping sound. In past years this condition was truly life-threatening. It killed thousands of people every year until research scientists developed a vaccine to stop the bacteria.

Whooping cough cases increased dramatically about five years ago, reaching levels that rivaled those of 60 years ago. Medical records show that this health condition affected many infants and young children who weren’t immunized or who had been immunized when very young. In the latter case, the vaccine was no longer strong enough to stop the cough from developing.

What to Watch For

Early signs of whooping cough include a mild cough and some sneezing. The individual may then experience a runny nose and may even develop a fever. Whooping cough really rears its head after a week or two, when the consistent, dry cough begins. The face may turn red from the effort and anyone within listening distance may hear the characteristic “whoop” as the individual tries to get air back into their lungs.

Keep in mind that whooping cough can fool some parents because the child often feels just fine between coughing spells (in later weeks). In addition, some individuals don’t produce the “whoop” in the same way others might. Some children have been known to simply gasp for air and get red in the face. A few may even stop breathing for a few seconds. Symptoms will generally be milder in older children and adults.

Treatment, Contagion

All forms of pertussis are contagious. Whooping cough is just one type of pertussis. When a person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria can spread in the fluid from the mouth or nose. People in the immediate area may inhale the bacteria directly or pick them up when they touch their face, nose or mouth.

It’s important to know that a person with whooping cough is highly contagious in the first couple of weeks after coughing starts. With proper medical treatment (antibiotics) this period may be shortened by as much as half. The best way to prevent whooping cough is to keep the required vaccination up to date.

It’s essential that someone with whooping cough symptoms be taken to a doctor that will perform the necessary tests and prescribe the correct medications. Tests may include nose and throat swamps and chest X-ray. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics that should be taken for the entire time, as directed. If you can catch the illness in its earliest stages, medication will have the most effect. Some who are afflicted with whooping cough need to be hospitalized, especially younger children who may be at risk for further illness (such as pneumonia). Bed rest and room vaporizers may provide some relief. It’s also important to avoid smoking and using aerosol spray in the presence of someone with pertussis.