Last updated on:

01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Pertussis

Definition

Pertussis (Whooping cough) is an infectious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable coughing. The name comes from the noise that comes when the patient takes a breath while coughing.

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms are:

1. Choking spells

2. A cough so hard that you vomit

Causes and Risk Factors

Anyone can get whooping cough, but it is more common in infants and children.

Investigations

1. To make a diagnosis, your doctor may examine you physically.

2. The doctor may also suggest a few more tests such as:

a) Blood tests

b) Chest x-rays

c) Nose or throat cultures

Treatment

Whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics (if taken well in time).

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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