How is whooping cough diagnosed?

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 07, 2024
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If the body has chronic cough symptoms that do not heal over time and recur frequently, it is suspicious of pertussis infection. To confirm this disease, corresponding auxiliary examinations are needed, such as a complete blood count and sputum culture. If Bordetella pertussis or Corynebacterium diphtheriae are cultured from the sputum, a diagnosis can be made. It is also necessary to combine clinical symptoms and promptly use sensitive antibiotics and cough-relieving expectorant drugs for symptomatic treatment, adjusting the mindset to avoid mental tension.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Where to get tested for whooping cough

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a prevalent infectious respiratory disease in children. If the disease is suspected, one can visit a nearby public hospital for a physical examination. Tests can include a complete blood count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as a sputum culture to identify pathogens such as Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Bordetella pertussis for diagnosis. Typical symptoms include a cough resembling a dog's bark or a crowing sound. Prompt treatment with macrolide antibiotics and cough suppressants and expectorants is necessary to alleviate discomfort.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Pertussis and measles transmission pathways

Pertussis and measles are two types of diseases, both of which are respiratory infectious diseases. Pertussis is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae or Bordetella pertussis, while measles is an acute, infectious disease caused by the measles virus. Transmission mainly occurs through close contact with infected individuals and via airborne droplets, and it is commonly seen in infants and young children under the age of five. Prevention of these diseases is primarily through vaccination, and once the disease occurs, it is important to promptly treat the infection with anti-inflammatory or antiviral treatments, while also managing the symptoms accordingly.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What does "one hundred days" in whooping cough refer to?

The clinical term "whooping cough" is so named because the term "hundred days" refers to the duration of the cough, symbolizing that the cough lasts a long time, the disease course is prolonged, and it tends to recur. It doesn’t necessarily mean that one will cough for exactly one hundred days. One should relax and have the correct understanding. For treating such diseases, sensitive antibiotics should be used promptly, along with symptomatic treatment. Blood tests such as a complete blood count and C-reactive protein should be conducted, along with chest X-ray, and sputum pathogen culture for definitive diagnosis, to ensure early detection and treatment.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Treatment methods for pertussis in children

The treatment methods for pertussis in children mainly involve anti-inflammatory processes, along with etiological treatment. Pertussis in children typically requires the selection of antimicrobial drugs to eradicate Bordetella pertussis. Clinically, macrolide antibiotics are primarily chosen, such as erythromycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin. Also, depending on the nature of the cough, some central antitussive agents or cough and phlegm relieving drugs can be used to alleviate the symptoms of cough. Additionally, in the acute phase of inflammation where fever is present, antipyretic analgesics should be taken for symptomatic treatment. (Medication use should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What fruits can be eaten with whooping cough?

Pertussis, once diagnosed, should be treated promptly with anti-inflammatory treatment and symptomatic care. Regarding diet, common fruits such as apples, bananas, grapes, pears, watermelons, pineapples, avocados, and mangoes can generally be consumed without special restrictions. Eating more pears, tangerines, and oranges can effectively moisturize the lungs, dissolve phlegm, suppress coughs, and alleviate symptoms. It is also important to drink plenty of water and maintain suitable indoor temperature and humidity to aid in recovery from the disease. Early detection and treatment of the disease, and the formulation of individualized treatment measures, are crucial.