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Whooping cough which is also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The infection typically begins with cold-like symptoms which progresses to severe bouts of coughing. The cough is characterised by a distinctive 'whoop' sound from the rapid inhalation of air after a cough. The disease can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, particularly in young children and infants who have not been properly immunised. Those with a weakened immune system or those who have had close contact with infected individuals are more susceptible to contracting the disease.

Whooping cough is a cause of concern for the residents of Chennai. With increasing urbanisation, population density and incomplete vaccination, the likelihood of the spread of this highly contagious disease has risen. Despite these challenges, residents of Chennai are not helpless in the face of this potential threat as the city is home to some of the best specialists for the treatment of Bordetella pertussis infection. Doctors for whooping cough treatment or pulmonologists at Chennai's Apollo Hospitals offer evidence-based medical care and guidance ensuring comprehensive treatment and care for patients suffering from this infection.

Types/Stages of Whooping Cough

Whooping cough progresses through various stages as it develops. They are categorised as:

• Catarrhal stage: This initial phase resembles a common cold with symptoms such as runny nose, mild cough, and fever.

• Paroxysmal stage: This is the acute phase marked by severe and rapid bouts of coughing followed by a characteristic 'whoop' sound during inhalation.

• Convalescent stage: This recovery phase may last for several weeks or months when the cough gradually improves.

Symptoms of Whooping Cough

The symptoms of whooping cough can vary depending on its stage. The common symptoms are:

• Mild fever and cold-like symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose

• Severe bouts of coughing that end with a 'whoop' sound

• Vomiting following a coughing episode

• Fatigue due to the strenuous nature of the cough

Tests to Diagnose Whooping Cough

Several tests are commonly recommended by doctors for the treatment of whooping cough to diagnose the condition:

• Nasal Swab: A sample is taken from the nose to detect the presence of Bordetella pertussis.

• Blood Test: This can determine the body's immune response to the infection.

• Chest X-ray: This can identify complications such as pneumonia.

• Pulse Oximetry: This measures oxygen levels in the blood, as they can be low in severe cases.

Treatment/Surgery Options for Whooping Cough at Apollo Hospitals Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals Chennai, multiple treatment options are offered by the doctors for whopping cough treatment. These include:

• Antibiotics: This is prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the disease.

• Hospitalisation & Supportive Care: This is necessary in severe cases or for infants under six months.

• Vaccination: The DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis) vaccine for infants and children and the Tdap vaccine for teenagers and adults can prevent whooping cough.

• Healthy lifestyle practices: This primarily includes adequate rest, hydration, and nutrition to help the body recover.