Paroxysmal cough and pertussis: what to know

Pertussis, also called whooping cough, can irritate the airways so strongly that one cough triggers another before there is time to breathe normally. A high-pitched intake of breath may follow a burst, although some people do not make a whoop. Vomiting, exhaustion, facial redness or brief pauses in breathing can occur, especially in babies. Fever may be mild or absent, so the cough pattern matters even when a temperature is not high.

Arrange medical assessment promptly, particularly if the attacks are worsening, disturbing sleep or affecting feeding. A clinician may assess the sound and timing of the cough and decide whether testing or antibiotic treatment is appropriate. Rest, small frequent drinks and avoiding smoke or strong fragrances may reduce irritation. Keep distance from infants and pregnant people until a clinician advises that close contact is appropriate; cover coughs and wash hands.

Seek emergency help for blue or grey lips, severe breathing difficulty, a pause in breathing, unusual limpness, confusion, chest pain or inability to keep fluids down. Babies can have breathing pauses without a dramatic cough. Get same-day advice when attacks cause repeated vomiting, poor feeding, dehydration or marked weakness.

Ask whether the pattern fits pertussis, whether a swab or other test is useful, how long close contacts may be at risk, and which symptoms should prompt emergency care. Mention vaccination history, the date the cough began and any exposure to someone with a prolonged cough.