Is nebulization useful for pertussis?

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on November 21, 2024
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Nebulized inhalation for localized treatment of pertussis can be quite effective. It helps alleviate bronchial smooth muscle spasms and is used for spasmodic coughs, effectively easing cough symptoms as a symptomatic treatment measure. However, it is also necessary to target the infectious pathogens with oral or intravenous macrolide antibiotics for anti-inflammatory treatment. Drinking plenty of water, maintaining suitable indoor temperature and humidity, and having confidence in overcoming the disease are important. Although the course of the disease may be long, complete recovery is possible through proper treatment, so there is no need for excessive worry.

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Can a routine blood test detect whooping cough?

Whooping cough is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis infection, commonly seen in children. The main symptoms are paroxysmal spasmodic coughing and a crowing inspiratory whoop. The disease has a long course and may be complicated by pneumonia, neurological diseases, and others. The diagnosis of the disease mainly relies on the cultivation of Bordetella pertussis, detection of Bordetella pertussis DNA, and testing for pertussis toxin antibodies. In this disease, the routine blood test will also show a significant increase in the white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, and white blood cell differential.

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Treatment methods for pertussis in children

The treatment methods for pertussis in children mainly involve anti-inflammatory processes, along with etiological treatment. Pertussis in children typically requires the selection of antimicrobial drugs to eradicate Bordetella pertussis. Clinically, macrolide antibiotics are primarily chosen, such as erythromycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin. Also, depending on the nature of the cough, some central antitussive agents or cough and phlegm relieving drugs can be used to alleviate the symptoms of cough. Additionally, in the acute phase of inflammation where fever is present, antipyretic analgesics should be taken for symptomatic treatment. (Medication use should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Why is whooping cough milder during the day and worse at night?

Whooping cough is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis infection, commonly seen in children. The main symptoms are paroxysmal spasmodic coughing, a crowing inspiratory noise, with coughing occurring both during the day and at night, more significantly at night. The main reasons are as follows: first, the dry indoor air causes irritation. Second, during the night, the mucus secreted by the bronchial mucosa cannot be expelled from the body, which stimulates the bronchial nerves and triggers worsening cough symptoms. Coughing can also cause redness of the face and ears, runny nose, nausea, and vomiting.

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Pertussis transmission routes

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory disease often seen in children. It is typically caused by infection with the Bordetella pertussis or Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria, and is mainly transmitted through airborne droplets and close contact with infected individuals. It has a strong contagion potential, with contagiousness becoming significant about two to three weeks from the incubation period to the onset of symptoms. Once diagnosed, it is crucial to isolate the patient promptly and administer medications to alleviate discomfort. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through the cultivation of the pathogen. Treatment includes medications to thin the mucus, isolation of the infectious source, and the use of macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin or azithromycin to manage inflammation during the acute phase.

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Can adult whooping cough heal itself?

Adults with pertussis, a condition that can resolve on its own if the symptoms are mild and the body's immune function is normal. However, decisions should be based on individual constitution, and not all patients can self-heal, especially those who are frail or have endocrine diseases generally cannot recover on their own. It is necessary to timely choose macrolide antibiotics and combine them with symptomatic treatment to alleviate symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing, and fever. Regular exercise is needed to boost immunity.