Whooping cough is a problem which is often overlooked simply because people do not pay heed to the symptoms of whooping cough and end up underestimating the problem. Some people just do not realize how contagious whooping cough can really be. This is partly due to the fact that whooping cough is no longer considered a big problem on account of the vaccine that is freely available.


This is a bacterial problem and one of the identifiable traits of this particular cough is how the coughing appears to be uncontrollable. There is also the characteristic noise which is observed after the cough, when one pauses to take a breath. The cough can become a terrible problem where it is so severe that it makes one choke occasionally and may also induce vomit.


The following characteristic signs of whooping cough can help you identify the same and seek treatment. The initial symptoms typically appear a lot like the symptoms that could be attributed to a common cold, such as the usual runny nose and a dry cough. It is usually a week later or so that the more frightening symptoms of whooping cough are manifest, such as severe coughing spells which become prolonged and could also cause problems like a thick phlegm, which is brought up by such a spell. It may leave the person blue in the face or possibly red, and can result in exhaustion. In some cases, it may be that the only sign of a whooping cough is a rather generic symptom of a hacking cough which does not seem to abate. In infants, the cough can be truly alarming as the little ones seem to be unable to breathe properly and drinking or attempting to eat becomes very difficult. While till date, some infants do suffer from such coughs, the very nature of whooping cough makes it alarming when the patient is so young. It not only frightens caregivers but such a cough would be dangerous in one so young.

It is also important to note the age group where whooping cough is most likely to be seen. It is typically the youngsters and infants who suffer from this kind of a cough, although any age group can fall prey to whooping cough. One has to remember that whooping cough is not to be as feared as before considering the fact that there is a vaccine available. You will find one under the medical name pertussis and one can also find a combination vaccine for the same. If whooping cough is suspected, a doctor should be called in as treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics.