1 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

Convalescent Stage

Whooping cough will then go through a final stage, which can last up to two weeks. During this time the child is at risk for complications such as pneumonia, and even a hernia due to severe coughing. Because of the severity of the coughing it is possible that the blood supply to the brain can be temporarily limited. This can lead to convulsions and seizures in some severe cases - especially in children.

Doctors typically diagnose pertussis infections clinically. A simple evaluation of the patient along with a history of where and who they have been exposed to is oftentimes enough to establish the diagnosis. It is possible to take a culture of the mucous secretions in a potentially affected child, however this is not always necessary.

Treatment for pertussis involves the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics have been shown to decrease the severity of the symptoms. They can also reduce the time a child is sick if they are given early on. If the antibiotics are given in the Paroxysmal or Convalescent Stage, once the characteristic coughing begins, they are not as effective in limiting the progression of the disease.

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Because of this the most important thing you can do to limit your child's risk of getting a pertussis infection is to provide them with the available vaccine. The vaccine has a long history of safety and effectiveness, and is now considered one of the many standard childhood vaccines that are used to improve the health of our children in society.

Learn more about this author, Erich Rosenberger M.D..
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Information about pertussis (whooping cough)?
We want to hear your view. Write now!