Whooping cough in a teenager

Whooping cough, or pertussis, can start with a runny nose, mild temperature, or ordinary-sounding cough. Later, a teenager may have clustered coughing episodes that are hard to control. They may gasp after coughing, retch, vomit, complain of sore ribs, or feel drained after a spell. Not everyone makes a whooping noise.

Coughing episodes can be particularly disruptive at school, during sport, and overnight. A long-lasting cough has many possible causes, so the goal of assessment is to identify the pattern and protect people who may be more vulnerable if exposed.

Book a medical review for coughing fits, known exposure to pertussis, vomiting after coughs, or a cough that is worsening instead of settling. Bring a list of symptoms, when they began, medicines already used, and any known close contacts. The clinician may consider testing and whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

Encourage small, frequent drinks if coughing makes larger drinks difficult. Avoid vaping, smoking, and smoky places, which can irritate the airways. Follow the clinician's advice about school attendance, sports, visitors, and sharing indoor spaces.

Get urgent medical help if the teenager is struggling to breathe, has blue or grey lips or face, faints, has a seizure, becomes confused, or has severe chest pain. Seek prompt advice if vomiting prevents fluids staying down, there are signs of dehydration, or fever comes with a worsening condition.

Take a report of breathlessness seriously even if it occurs between coughs. If symptoms change suddenly, do not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask if the history suggests pertussis, whether a swab or other test is useful, and what treatment could help. Ask what information the school should receive and whether close family members need individual advice.

Review the teenager's immunisation record with the clinician. It can guide a discussion about prevention and any recommended updates for the household.