Whooping Cough Symptoms

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can affect people of all ages but is particularly dangerous for infants and young children. Characterized by intense coughing fits followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound, this disease can cause weeks or even months of discomfort and complications if left untreated.

Understanding the symptoms of whooping cough is essential for early detection and treatment. This guide will walk you through the different stages of whooping cough, how the symptoms progress, and what you should do if you or a loved one shows signs of infection.

What Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Once it enters the body, the bacteria attach to the lining of the respiratory tract and release toxins that damage tissues and trigger inflammation.

The name “whooping cough” comes from the classic “whoop” sound made during the inhalation that follows a series of severe coughing fits. However, not everyone with the illness will exhibit this sound, especially adults.

The Three Stages of Whooping Cough Symptoms

Whooping cough develops in three distinct stages, each with its own set of symptoms. Recognizing the progression is key to understanding the illness and seeking timely treatment.

1. Catarrhal Stage (Weeks 1–2)

This initial stage resembles a common cold and is the most infectious period of the illness. The symptoms may be mild, making it easy to mistake for a viral upper respiratory infection.

Common symptoms in this stage:

Runny nose
Mild fever (usually under 102°F or 38.9°C)
Sneezing
Occasional dry cough
Watery eyes
Fatigue
Decreased appetite

During the catarrhal stage, antibiotics are most effective at preventing the progression of the illness. Unfortunately, many people are not diagnosed at this point because the symptoms are so common and nonspecific.

2. Paroxysmal Stage (Weeks 2–6)

As the disease progresses, it enters the paroxysmal stage—marked by violent, uncontrolled coughing fits. This is when the classic symptoms of whooping cough become evident.

Key symptoms during this stage include:

Severe coughing fits: These episodes can last up to a minute and occur several times an hour, especially at night.
Whooping sound: After a fit, the person may struggle to inhale, producing a loud “whoop” noise. This is more common in children than in adults.
Post-cough vomiting: Coughing fits can be so intense that they trigger vomiting.
Exhaustion: Coughing fits are draining and leave the person tired and gasping for breath.
Facial discoloration: Coughing may cause the face to turn red or even bluish from lack of oxygen.
Tearing and bulging eyes: The pressure from coughing can affect the eyes.

Infants may not cough at all. Instead, they might experience dangerous pauses in breathing (apnea), which require immediate medical attention.

3. Convalescent Stage (Weeks 6–10 or longer)

In the final phase, symptoms begin to ease, but recovery can be slow. The coughing becomes less frequent and less severe but may still linger for several weeks.

Common signs during this stage:

Gradual decrease in coughing severity
Continued fatigue and weakness
Risk of recurrent coughing fits triggered by other respiratory infections

While the infection is no longer contagious in this stage, it can still disrupt daily life and take a toll on physical health.