Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, sounds like a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like a "whoop."
Understanding the Sound of Pertussis
Pertussis is characterized by a distinctive sound due to the nature of the infection and the body's response to it. The sound is a key indicator for diagnosing this highly contagious respiratory illness.
- Severe Hacking Cough: The cough associated with pertussis is intense and persistent. It occurs in bursts, making it difficult for the affected individual to breathe.
- "Whoop" Sound: After a series of coughs, the person will gasp for air, resulting in a high-pitched "whoop" sound. This sound is caused by the forceful inhalation of air through a narrowed airway.
Key Characteristics of Pertussis Cough
To better understand the sound of pertussis, consider these characteristics:
- Paroxysmal Cough: The cough occurs in sudden, violent attacks (paroxysms).
- Post-Tussive Vomiting: Vomiting may occur after a coughing fit due to the intensity and strain.
- Exhaustion: Individuals often feel extremely tired after coughing episodes.
Why Does Pertussis Sound This Way?
The bacteria responsible for pertussis (Bordetella pertussis) causes inflammation and swelling in the airways. This makes it difficult to breathe, leading to the characteristic "whoop" sound when the person tries to inhale after a coughing fit.
