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Facts about Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Possible Complications due to Symptoms

In infants and adults, some possible complications may occur. Hence, infants need to be closely monitored by parents, guardians, or health care providers to avoid dangerous complications that arise due to the lack of adequate oxygen. Some examples of severe complications are:

  • Seizures
  • Pneumonia
  • Bleeding within the brain
  • Apnea
  • Death
  • Convulsions
  • Brain damage

Please note that if an infant experiences any symptom of whooping cough, a doctor should be consulted with immediate effect.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults with chronic pertussis may experience the following:

  • Pneumonia
  • Lack of sleep
  • Rib fractures from coughing
  • Weight loss
  • Urinary incontinence or accidents in the bathroom