Is whooping cough without the crowing sound getting better?

Written by Zeng Hai Jiang
Pediatrics
Updated on November 30, 2024
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Pertussis without a crowing sound indicates recovery. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is an acute respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis, commonly seen in children. The progression of pertussis can be divided into three stages: The first stage is the catarrhal stage, also known as the pre-paroxysmal stage. At the early stage, the child shows symptoms similar to the common cold, followed by worsening cough. If the condition is not effectively controlled during this stage, It then progresses to the second stage, the paroxysmal stage. During the paroxysmal stage, the child exhibits characteristic episodic spasmodic coughing and crowing inhalation sounds. This period can last up to two months. Finally, it moves into the recovery stage. In the recovery stage, the frequency and severity of the episodic spasmodic cough and crowing inhalation sounds gradually alleviate. Thus, the absence of a crowing sound in whooping cough is an indication of approaching recovery.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Does whooping cough cause a runny nose?

In the early stages of whooping cough, also known as the incubation period, symptoms similar to those of a cold can occur, including runny nose, sneezing, mild fever, and an irritating dry cough. If the disease progresses for two to four weeks, it typically presents with episodes of spasmodic, convulsive coughing, characterized by a notable change in the sound of the cough. Some children might exhibit a bark-like cough or a crowing-like cough. Accompanying symptoms can include redness of the face and ears, tearing, more runny nose, as well as signs of oxygen deprivation such as nausea, vomiting, and cyanosis of the lips. It is advisable to further conduct pathogen culture to confirm the diagnosis and initiate timely treatment.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Is the pertussis vaccine an inactivated vaccine?

The pertussis vaccine is not an inactivated vaccine but a live attenuated vaccine, which primarily stimulates the body to produce antibodies. Once antibodies are produced, it can effectively prevent the disease pertussis. The commonly used pertussis vaccine in clinical settings is the trivalent vaccine, also known as the DTP vaccine, which can prevent pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus—three infectious diseases caused by pathogens. It is essential to follow medical advice and complete the vaccination schedule as prescribed to achieve prevention. After vaccination, it is crucial to observe for any complications or adverse reactions.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Why is whooping cough worse at night?

One reason why whooping cough is more severe at night is due to the dry air indoors which irritates, and another reason is due to changes in body posture. As the body is in a supine or lateral position during sleep at night, the bronchial mucous secretion cannot be expelled from the body, which stimulates the bronchial nerves and induces symptoms such as coughing. The typical cough is a paroxysmal spasmodic cough, and it can also lead to red face, runny nose, and in severe cases, nasal discharge, tears, nausea, and vomiting. It is necessary to receive timely anti-inflammatory treatment and maintain the cleanliness of the indoor air.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can whooping cough heal on its own?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, can recover on its own if the viral load is low and symptoms are mild. However, if symptoms are more typical and accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, and paroxysmal convulsive coughing, it generally cannot recover without medical help and requires a combination of sensitive antibiotics and symptomatic treatment. Common choices include macrolide antibiotics, such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, and azithromycin. If there are symptoms of respiratory difficulty, oxygen inhalation can be used to alleviate the signs of mucosal hypoxia.

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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.