Treatment:

If started early enough, antibiotics such as erythromycin can make the symptoms go away more quickly. Unfortunately, most patients are diagnosed too late, when antibiotics aren't very effective. However, the medicines can help reduce the patient's ability to spread the disease to others.

Infants younger than 18 months need constant supervision because their breathing may temporarily stop during coughing spells. Infants with severe cases should be hospitalized.

An oxygen tent with high humidity may be used.

Fluids may be given through a vein if coughing spells are severe enough to prevent the person from drinking enough fluids.

Sedatives (medicines to make you sleepy) may be prescribed for young children.

Cough mixtures, expectorants, and suppressants are usually not helpful and should NOT be used.

Expectations (prognosis):

In older children, the outlook is generally very good. Infants have the highest risk of death, and need careful monitoring.

Complications:

• Pneumonia
• Convulsions
• Seizure disorder (permanent)
• Nose bleeds
• Ear infections
• Brain damage from lack of oxygen
• Bleeding in the brain (cerebral hemorrhage)
• Mental retardation
• Slowed or stopped breathing (apnea)
• Death

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you or your child develops symptoms of pertussis.

Call 911 or get to an emergency room if the person has any of the following symptoms:

• Bluish skin color, which indicates a lack of oxygen
• Periods of stopped breathing (apnea)
• Seizures or convulsions
• High fever
• Persistent vomiting
• Dehydration