What is Pertussis Cough?

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a lung infection that may cause a person to cough many times in a row. It can affect both children and adults, but it may be more serious for babies and small children. The cough might sound like a "whoop" because people struggle to take a breath after coughing.

This illness spreads from one person to another through tiny droplets via air when someone coughs or sneezes. It starts slowly, like a normal cold, but the cough can get worse over time and last for several weeks or even months. If the issue persists, see the doctor at once. Your health insurance should help you cover all the costs associated.

Symptoms

The signs of whooping cough can change over time. At first, they may seem very mild, but they get worse in the second and third weeks.

Early symptoms (first 1–2 weeks):

• Runny nose

• Sneezing

• Mild cough

• Slight fever

• Tiredness

Later symptoms (after 2 weeks):

• Long coughing fits that happen again and again

• A high-pitched “whoop” sound while breathing in after coughing

• Vomiting after coughing

• Tiredness after each coughing fit

• Red or watery eyes

• Trouble breathing in some cases

In infants, symptoms can be more serious. Some may not cough at all, but instead briefly stop breathing.

What Causes It?

This illness may begin when bacteria enter the body. These bacteria stick to the inner lining of the airways and make toxins. These toxins can damage the airways and cause swelling, which leads to a long-lasting cough.

A child might get whooping cough by:

• Breathing in air contaminated with bacteria from an infected person.

• Being close to someone who is coughing or sneezing.

• Touching surfaces that have droplets from an infected person and then touching their mouth or nose.

The illness may spread quickly in families, schools, or other crowded places. Hence, it is important to have family health insurance to ensure your entire family can receive the right treatment promptly.

Complications

For most older children and adults, the illness may pass without serious problems. But in babies, it might lead to dangerous health issues. Some common and rare problems include:

In babies and young children:

• Lung infection

• Breathing problems

• Seizures

• Poor weight gain from feeding difficulty

• Long pauses in breathing

• Convulsing meaning an episode of involuntary shaking caused by severe illness.

In adults and older children:

• Broken ribs from strong coughing

• Weak bladder control

• Lack of sleep

• Vomiting after coughing

These issues may need extra care and attention to prevent further health problems.

Diagnosis

To diagnose whooping cough, a doctor usually listens to the sound of the cough and asks about symptoms and their duration. Since it may look like other cough-related illnesses, some tests might help find the real cause.

Tests that may be done:

• Swab test from the back of the nose or throat to check for bacteria.

• Blood tests

• Chest X-ray

Doctors usually try to confirm the illness early, but sometimes it is found after the coughing fits become severe.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how early the illness is found and the severity of the symptoms. In some cases, people may recover at home with rest and care.

Medical support might include:

• Medicines that might reduce the infection if given early.

• Breathing assistance, if the person struggles to breathe.

• Fluids to avoid dehydration.

• Nutritional support if eating becomes hard.

Home care Tips

• Keep the room air clean and fresh.

• Avoid smoke or strong smells.

• Drink warm fluids to soothe the throat.

• Rest as much as possible.

• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist.

• Wash your hands often to prevent spreading germs.

Small children and babies might need hospital care if their symptoms are serious.

Ways To Prevent It

Steps that may help prevent whooping cough:

• Keep babies and small children away from sick people.

• Wash your hands with soap and water often.

• Cover both your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

• Avoid crowded places during an outbreak.

• Keep rooms well-ventilated and clean.

• Encourage family members to stay home if they are coughing.

Conclusion

Whooping cough may begin mildly but often becomes more severe over time, especially in small children. It can lead to breathing trouble, weakness, and other health problems that might require hospital care.

Managing the illness early can reduce long-term effects, but medical tests, treatments, or hospital stays may be costly. Having health insurance during such times can ease the financial burden. It allows families to focus on care instead of expenses, giving access to timely support when symptoms get worse. In uncertain health situations, insurance can offer both relief and readiness.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Sources: my.clevelandclinic, Mayoclinic

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on July 30, 2025