Best Whooping Cough Doctors in Bangalore

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial disease that leads to violent, "whooping" coughs. The bacterium Bordetella pertussis infects the respiratory system, causing inflammation and inducing severe coughing spells that can interfere with breathing. Lack of vaccination or weakened immunity can make one susceptible to this disease. If left untreated, pertussis can lead to complications such as pneumonia, seizures and in severe cases even brain damage.

Cases of whooping cough are frequently reported from Bangalore, a thriving metropolis in South India. However, thanks to the vast network of doctors for the treatment of whooping cough in Bangalore's medical fraternity, which makes diagnosis and treatment of this disease are readily accessible. Apollo Hospitals Bangalore offers the services of some of the best doctors for the treatment of Bordetella pertussis infection.

Types/Stages of Whooping Cough

Whooping cough progresses through several stages. They are:

• Catarrhal stage: The illness resembles a common cold with symptoms like runny nose, low-grade fever and mild cough.

• Paroxysmal stage: This is when severe bouts of coughing begin. These episodes can be so intense that they cause vomiting or result in a 'whoop' sound during the sharp intake of breath after coughing.

• Convalescent Stage: The final stage involves a gradual recovery with less frequent coughing bouts. It may persist for a few weeks.

  Symptoms of Whooping Cough

  The symptoms of whooping cough can vary depending on the stage. The common symptoms are:

• Mild fever

• Runny nose

• Bouts of rapid coughing

• A high-pitched "whoop" sound during the intake of breath after a coughing fit

• Vomiting after coughing

Tests to Diagnose Whooping Cough

Specialists for the treatment of Bordetella pertussis infection may recommend the following tests for an accurate diagnosis of the condition:

• Physical Examination: To check for signs such as a runny nose, fever and characteristic cough.

• Blood Tests: To assess one's white blood cell count.

• Nasopharyngeal swab: A sample from the back of the nose and throat is taken for laboratory testing to detect the Bordetella pertussis bacterium

  Treatment or Surgery Options for Whooping Cough at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore

The doctors for the treatment of whopping cough at Apollo Hospitals Bangalore offer comprehensive treatment plans to effectively manage this condition. The most common treatment options include:

• Antibiotic Therapy: This is the first line of treatment where drugs like azithromycin or clarithromycin may be prescribed.

• Hospitalisation: In severe cases, especially for infants, hospitalisation might be necessary.

• Vaccination: The DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine is given to children and it is recommended that adults take a booster shot.

• Symptomatic treatment: Symptomatic treatment, including fluids and rest to aid recovery, is generally suggested.