What should you know about pertussoid cough?

The term pertussoid describes repeated coughing fits, sometimes followed by gagging or a noisy breath. It describes how the cough sounds or behaves, not a single diagnosis. A recent infection, airway sensitivity, mucus, reflux or inflammation can all contribute.

Possible causes include acute bronchitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, acid reflux, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, chronic cough and the common cold. A cough is the symptom being described; it does not identify which condition is responsible. Age, duration, triggers, breathing pattern and associated symptoms help guide assessment.

Arrange a clinical assessment if the cough is severe, lasts beyond the expected course of a minor infection, returns repeatedly or disrupts sleep and drinking. Note whether it follows meals, exercise, lying down, dust, animals or a respiratory infection. Avoid smoke and stay hydrated.

A clinician may listen to the chest, review medicines, assess allergies or reflux, and decide whether tests are useful. Treatment depends on the cause, so avoid starting antibiotics or inhalers without advice. Bring a list of triggers and any breathing sounds you have noticed.

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, choking, confusion, collapse or an inability to speak in full sentences. Get prompt assessment for coughing with blood, chest pain, a baby breathing differently, or a cough that rapidly becomes more intense.

Ask which features suggest asthma, reflux, allergy or infection, whether the lungs need testing, and which warning signs should prompt urgent review.