Home remedies for whooping cough

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, causes repeated bouts of forceful coughing. A gasp or whoop may follow a bout, although not everyone makes that sound. Coughing can lead to vomiting, exhaustion, or trouble feeding. Infants may have pauses in breathing without a dramatic cough, so their symptoms need careful attention.

Offer frequent small drinks and soft foods if tolerated. Let the person rest between coughing bouts, keep the air free of smoke, and use a humidified environment if it feels soothing. During a coughing spell, keep them upright and supervise children closely. Wash hands, cover coughs, and follow local medical advice about staying away from babies and vulnerable people. A clinician may prescribe Antibiotic Treatment to reduce spread or treat the infection; do not use leftover medicine.

Seek emergency help for blue lips, pauses in breathing, severe struggle to breathe, unusual drowsiness, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt assessment for an infant, repeated vomiting after coughing, dehydration, or a cough that is worsening. Fever can accompany infection; seek advice if Fever is persistent or the person appears increasingly unwell.

Ask whether testing or antibiotics are appropriate, how long the person may remain contagious, and how to protect household members. Ask about Childhood Immunisation if a child or close contact is not up to date.