What Are the Symptoms of Whooping Cough and How Is It Treated?

Whooping cough is a severe bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. Despite the availability of vaccines, it remains a significant concern—especially for vulnerable populations such as infants, pregnant women, and the elderly. The hallmark of this illness is uncontrollable coughing fits that can make breathing difficult. Early recognition of whooping cough symptoms can lead to better treatment outcomes and help prevent further spread. In this article, we’ll explore the key symptoms of whooping cough, how the infection progresses, and why early medical intervention is crucial.

What Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, is a contagious respiratory infection known for causing prolonged coughing episodes. The disease gets its name from the distinctive “whoop” sound patients make when gasping for air after intense coughing spells. While it can affect people of all ages, symptoms can vary depending on the person's age and overall health.

What Are the Stages of Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough typically progresses through three stages, each marked by distinct symptoms. Recognizing these phases can help in identifying the infection early.

Stage One – Catarrhal Stage

This initial stage lasts about 7 to 14 days and often mimics the common cold. It’s also the most contagious phase. Common symptoms include:

• Runny nose – One of the first signs, often accompanied by sneezing and nasal discharge.
• Mild cough – May be mistaken for a regular cold.
• Low-grade fever – Some may experience a slight increase in body temperature.
• Irritability and fatigue – General discomfort and tiredness are common but often overlooked.

This stage can be particularly deceptive because its symptoms resemble those of typical colds or flu.

Stage Two – Paroxysmal Stage

This is the most severe phase and can last from one to six weeks. It is characterized by intense coughing fits. Symptoms during this stage include:

• Severe coughing spells – These fits can come on suddenly and last for minutes. In children, they’re often followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound as the child inhales.
• Post-cough vomiting – The force of coughing may cause vomiting, especially in children.
• Exhaustion – Repeated coughing can leave the patient feeling extremely tired and weak.
• Breathing difficulties – The intensity of coughing may cause shortness of breath and make it hard to catch a full breath.

This stage is particularly worrisome for young children, who may have more difficulty breathing after coughing spells. Adults may experience milder symptoms, but the persistent cough can still cause significant fatigue and chest discomfort.

Stage Three – Convalescent Stage

This is the recovery stage, which can last for weeks or even months. The cough gradually becomes less frequent and less intense, although it may linger. Common symptoms include:

• Gradual decrease in coughing – The cough persists but becomes more manageable.
• Improved breathing – Patients start to breathe more easily between coughing episodes.
• Lingering fatigue – Some people continue to feel weak after a prolonged illness.

During this phase, most symptoms begin to subside, though occasional coughing fits can persist.

What Are the Symptoms of Whooping Cough?

Symptoms in Children

Children, particularly infants, are highly susceptible to whooping cough. Their symptoms are often more severe and include:

• Rapid, high-pitched coughing fits – Often followed by the characteristic “whoop” sound.
• Bluish skin – Due to difficulty breathing, especially around the lips and mouth.
• Vomiting after coughing – Strong coughing can lead to vomiting in many children.
• Breathing difficulties – Infants may struggle to breathe between coughing fits and may require urgent medical attention.

Because symptoms in young children can be life-threatening—especially in infants under six months—early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Symptoms in Adults

Although often considered a childhood illness, whooping cough can also affect adults. In many cases, adult symptoms are milder but still problematic, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory issues. Symptoms in adults may include:

• Persistent dry cough – Not always paroxysmal, but can last for weeks.
• Fatigue – Ongoing coughing can lead to exhaustion and disrupted sleep.
• Chest discomfort – Extended coughing may cause chest and rib pain.
• Vomiting or choking after coughing – Less common in adults, but still possible after severe fits.

Adults often dismiss these symptoms as a lingering cold or bronchitis. However, because whooping cough is highly contagious, identifying and managing it is essential to protect others.

Symptoms in Pregnant Women

Pregnant women should be especially cautious, as whooping cough can pose risks to both mother and fetus. Symptoms are similar to those in other adults but require prompt treatment to avoid complications. They include:

• Persistent cough – A cough lasting more than two weeks should raise concern.
• Breathing difficulty – Increased pressure on the lungs during pregnancy can worsen breathing problems.
• Fatigue – Pregnant women may feel more exhausted due to increased physical demands.
• Vomiting after coughing – Common in pregnancy and can impact nutrition.

Because of these risks, pregnant women are often advised to receive a Tdap vaccine during the third trimester to protect themselves and their newborns.

Why Is Early Detection of Whooping Cough Important?

Identifying whooping cough early is essential for several reasons:

• Timely treatment – Early diagnosis allows for proper treatment, which can lessen the severity of symptoms.
• Preventing complications – High-risk groups, such as infants and pregnant women, are more vulnerable to serious outcomes.
• Limiting spread – The disease is most contagious in its early stages, so isolating and treating patients helps control transmission.

How Is Whooping Cough Treated?

Antibiotics

• Reduces infection – Antibiotics kill the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, stopping further transmission.
• Shortens illness – When given early, antibiotics can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
• Prevents complications – Timely treatment helps prevent issues like pneumonia.

Commonly prescribed antibiotics include azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin.

Symptom Management

• Hydration – Drinking water and caffeine-free teas helps soothe the throat and reduce nasal congestion.
• Rest – Adequate rest supports the body’s recovery from intense coughing.
• Humidifiers – Adding moisture to the air can ease breathing.
• Elevated sleeping position – Sleeping with the head raised may reduce nighttime coughing.

Hospitalization for Severe Cases

• Breathing problems – Immediate medical attention is needed if a patient turns blue or has severe difficulty breathing.
• Dehydration – IV fluids may be required if frequent vomiting leads to fluid loss.
• Serious complications – Conditions like pneumonia may require hospital care.

How Can Whooping Cough Be Prevented?

Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against whooping cough:

• DTaP vaccine for children – Administered in multiple doses starting at two months of age. Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• Tdap booster for adults and pregnant women – Recommended to maintain immunity. Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine in their third trimester to protect their newborns.

How Does Whooping Cough Differ from a Regular Cough?

Because whooping cough shares symptoms with other respiratory infections, it can be difficult to distinguish:

• Whooping Cough vs. Flu
  • Flu: Accompanied by congestion, mild cough, and sore throat.
  • Whooping Cough: Starts like a cold but progresses into violent coughing without congestion.
• Whooping Cough vs. Bronchitis
  • Bronchitis: Characterized by a productive cough that expels mucus.
  • Whooping Cough: Dry, rapid cough with no mucus production.

What Are the Complications of Whooping Cough?

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• A cough lasting more than two weeks.
• Severe coughing fits that lead to vomiting.
• Breathing difficulties or bluish skin tone.

For pregnant women and infants, any sign of whooping cough warrants immediate care to prevent complications and reduce the severity of the illness.

Whooping cough is a potentially serious respiratory disease, especially for infants, pregnant women, and the elderly. Recognizing its causes and symptoms early and seeking timely medical care can help prevent complications and limit the spread. Vaccination remains the most reliable method of protection for both individuals and the broader community.

FAQs:

Can whooping cough be fatal?

Yes. It can be life-threatening, particularly for infants and individuals with weakened immune systems, due to potential complications like pneumonia and respiratory failure.

How long does recovery take?

Whooping cough can last up to 10 weeks or longer, with symptoms varying in intensity across its different stages.