The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that there are thousands of cases of whooping cough, also called pertussis, reported each year, but studies have indicated the actual number of cases of the disease throughout the nation is likely much higher.
This serious infection can lead to a variety of complications, including abdominal hernias, broken blood vessels, and cracked ribs or torn muscles as a result of the severity of the cough. In elderly adults whose immune systems are already lower and less effective than those of younger adults, this infection can also make them more vulnerable to further illnesses and infections.
By recognizing the symptoms of this illness early, you can help to ensure your senior gets the medical attention and treatment they need to help them manage this issue in the best way possible.
Signs and Symptoms of Whooping Cough
Some of the signs and symptoms of the early stages of whooping cough include:
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Red eyes
- Watering of the eyes
After one to two weeks, the symptoms can increase to include a cough so severe that it can cause:
- Vomiting
- Pervasive fatigue
- Red or blue discoloration of the face
- Tell-tale “whoop” sound at the end of each episode
It is important to note, however, that adults do not always develop this characteristic sound. Rather, your parent might only have a serious, hacking cough. This coughing can last for 10 weeks or more, causing a serious decline in quality of life and increasing the risk of other health complications.
Contact Care Options for Kids for Home Health Care Services
If you are concerned that your elderly loved one is at particular risk for suffering from whooping cough or another serious health issue, or they are dealing with a condition or disease that increases their vulnerability to such issues, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting senior homecare for them. A senior home care services provider can be with your aging parent on a customized schedule that is right for their needs, as well as the care that you give them.
This means they will receive the support, assistance, care, and encouragement they need to address their needs and help them to remain safe, comfortable, healthy, and happy as they age in place. When it comes to protecting your aging parent and helping them avoid serious health issues, this senior homecare provider can help your parent understand the risks they are facing and what they can do to reduce those risks.
They can then support them in remaining compliant with the guidelines and doctor recommendations and in making good lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, staying active, and maintaining an aggressive germ control approach.
A home care provider can also provide valuable monitoring that will enable them to detect any new or worsened symptoms they are suffering so you can ensure they get the medical attention they need promptly to reduce their risk for serious complications.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services, contact the caring staff at Care Options for Kids Home Care. Call today (888) 592-5855.
Sources
Mayo Clinic
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
