Answer:

Whooping cough is an acute infectious disease caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. The bacteria attach to the respiratory tract lining, damaging the cilia in the trachea and bronchi. This leads to inflammation and prolonged coughing spells. Whooping cough progresses through three stages. The initial stage (first 1-2 weeks) presents mild symptoms, easily mistaken for a common cold. Early detection allows for effective treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

This respiratory illness can affect people of all ages but is more common in children under one year old. This age group is also most susceptible to complications like pneumonia, respiratory failure, and brain damage from prolonged oxygen deprivation. Your son's maintained appetite is a positive sign, as whooping cough often involves violent coughing fits followed by vomiting, poor appetite, and weight loss, which can lead to malnutrition if prolonged.

Treating whooping cough in children depends on the severity of the illness and the child's age. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, control the bacteria, and prevent complications. Since you've already consulted a doctor and received a prescription, it's crucial to administer the correct medication and dosage as instructed to suppress bacterial growth, reduce the risk of transmission, and prevent complications.

To ease your son's discomfort, give him warm water, use a gentle humidifier, ensure good ventilation, and avoid smoke, dust, and irritating scents. Don't use cough suppressants or nasal drops without medical advice. Since he currently has no fever, continue monitoring him. If he develops a fever or body aches, you can administer paracetamol as directed, but avoid aspirin due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

Infants have narrow airways. You can check for and clear any phlegm to help your son breathe easier. Monitor him closely and seek immediate medical attention if he experiences difficulty breathing, chest retractions, cyanosis (bluish skin), seizures, lethargy, loss of consciousness, excessive vomiting or refusal to feed, persistent coughing, high fever, or rapid breathing.

Dr. Le Anh Trong

Pediatrics Department, Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi