Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection
At the initial stage, the patient suffers from symptoms similar to a cold, but as the disease progresses, the symptoms also worsen.
An uncontrollable cough develops against the background of accumulation of thick mucus in the respiratory tract.
The infection is caused by a bacterium called Bordetella Pertussis.
Consult a doctor if you have the following symptoms due to a prolonged cough:
- Vomiting;
- Redness or bluing of the skin;
- You feel that you have difficulty breathing or you pause in the process of breathing;
- Unusual sound when inhaling.
Treatment
Hospitalization of infants is recommended, as pertussis is particularly dangerous in this age group. If the child is unable to keep fluids or food in the body for the recommended time, the doctor will prescribe intravenous fluids. In order to prevent the spread of infection, it will be necessary to isolate a small patient.
Adults can be treated at home under the supervision of a doctor.
Treatment with medication (appropriate antibiotics) is provided.
Along with following the doctor's prescription, in the process of home treatment, it is recommended to:
- Take a break;
- Drink water, juice and eat soup;
- Vomiting is common on the background of cough, therefore, do not eat a lot, eat small amounts and often;
- Keep fresh air in the room and avoid cough-causing irritants;
- In order not to spread the infection to others, wash your hands often, use a mask.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whooping-cough/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20378978
