Pertussinum Anhang 2

 

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis (or B. pertussis). It's characterized by severe coughing spells that

end in a "whooping" sound when the person breathes in.

Symptoms: The disease begins with a cold and a mild cough. After this, the typical coughing bouts set in. The coughing continues until no air is left in the lungs. After this comes a deep intake of breath that produces a heaving, 'whooping' sound when the air passes the larynx (windpipe) that gives rise to the name of the disease.

The patient will eventually cough up some phlegm and these attacks may be followed by vomiting. The child's temperature is likely to remain normal.

Coughing attacks may occur up to 40x daily, can last for up to 8 weeks.

 

[Hahnemann]

Drosera 30 C sufficient to cure nearly every case of whooping cough, a statement which clinical experience has not been verified, but Dros., will benefit a large number of the cases, if the following

indications be present: a barking cough in such frequent paroxysms as to prevent the catching of the breath; < evening. All efforts to raise the phlegm end in retching and vomiting. The attacks

<< midnight; the child holds its epigastrium while coughing. The drosera child cries a great deal. Arnica has crying before coughing because recollection or previous soreness and pain in present.

[Temple S. Hoyne, M.D]

Whooping-Cough – Lachesis should be thought of when, together with a relaxed uvula, there is a purplish look about the fauces, when tonsils swollen, when the windpipe is tender to the touch.

[Bayes]

"Drosera is more useful in whooping cough than any other remedy in our Materia Medica." Unlike Hahnemann, he claims that the higher dilutions are powerless, and he prescribes the first.

Dros. acts better in pure, uncomplicated whooping cough, and while it will correspond to some epidemics it will fail in others.

Sol-carolinense: good clinical record in explosive and spasmodic coughs, and is recommended by eclectic physicians as almost specific.

Cast-v.: seen as a specific in the 3x dilution.

Cupr-met.: cough + convulsions, or when the paroxysms are long and interrupted. Spasms of the flexor muscles predominate. The cough is very violent and threatens suffocation. Sometimes very nicely after Drosera and do good work. Coughs up a tough, gelatinous mucus, much rattling in the chest, face and lips are bluish. >> a swallow of cold water. Hale: Cuprum in cases + spasms, clenched hands, etc.

Cor-r.: severe cases of whooping cough. Before the cough there is a smothering sensation. The child gaps and becomes black in the face. It is a remedy for that shot, quick, ringing cough known as the "minute gun" cough.

The smothering shows itself in the form of gasping, crowing inspirations. After each attack of cough the child sinks back perfectly exhausted. No other drug produces such a violent paroxysm.

It is perhaps oftener indicated in the later stages of the affection, but the neurotic element must be present, and also the constriction of the chest before the attacks. The crowing inspiration of

whoop is not so pronounced as under Mephitis.

[Dr. Teste]

Cor-r. + Chel. comprehend the entire therapeutics of whooping cough;

[Dunham]

Cor-r. in violent cases.

Coc-c.: paroxysms of cough with vomiting of clear, ropy mucus, ext. in thick, long strings even to the floor. Sometimes seen in children who cough and cough with this tenacious mucus stringing from mouth and nose, waving to and fro until it finally gives way. The paroxysms come on in the morning, and often + vomiting of a clear, ropy mucus.

Ambra.: Eructations of wind following Coc-c.: remedy for the protracted bronchial catarrhs remaining after whooping cough. The excessive secretion of mucus under Coccus is marked and causes the child to strangle. The choking is most characteristic, even more so than the strangling.

Meph.: in cough with a well marked laryngeal spasm, a whoop. Cough is worse at night on lying down, there is a suffocated feeling, and the child cannot exhale. Farrington observes that this remedy will often apparently make the patient worse, while it really tends to shorten the course of the disease. The catarrhal symptoms calling Mephitis are slight, but the whoop is prominent. The smothering comes on with cough, while with Cor-r.: comes in before the cough, and is followed by great exhaustion. There is not much expectoration with Mephitis. There are many spasmodic symptoms with this remedy, such as cramping of the legs at night.

Naphtalin.: The writer has seen good results when the cough is very dry and catarrhal symptoms not pronounced, and the paroxysms of extreme length, and the constriction of the chest are present.

(whooping cough in adults).

One of Led.: Hahnemann's therapeutic hint in whooping cough, which has a spasmodic racking cough, and should be thought of in connection with this affection.

Bell.: In sudden violent paroxysms of whooping cough, without any expectoration, and the symptoms of cerebral congestion, Belladonna will be found useful. Epistaxis may accompany, and the patient is worse at night. [Boenninghausen] mostly in the beginning/later, when there is fever. Often in the beginning of the disease it use will shorten and modify the disease. Another indication attacks end with sneezing. The cough is excited by a tickling in the throat, “As if from down”. Retching and vomiting and pain in the stomach are prominent symptoms, but when Bell. is the remedy the congestive symptoms will be present and active, the onset sudden; the child grasps at the throat and clings to its mother, as if frightened.

Ip.: Convulsive cough, where the child stiffens out and becomes blue or pale and loses its breath, great nausea and relief from vomiting. A "gagging cough" is a good indication for the remedy.

The discharge of mucus is copious and tenacious, and the patient is very weak after the attacks. Violent shattering coughs following each other in quick succession, not permitting recovery of breath, indicate Ipecac. he child is limp and weak, and there is free perspiration. Sulphur is an excellent remedy for vomiting after the paroxysmal cough.

Ant-t.: child < excited or angry, or when eating; the cough culminates in vomiting of mucus and food. Much rattling of mucus in the chest with slight expectoration. Child is irritable and cross, and will cry, when approached; the tongue will be white and weakness will be present. If diarrhea be present with great debility and depression of vital forces, or if the child vomits its supper shortly after midnight << warm drinks.

Cina.: This is not always a worm remedy. Most excellent in whooping cough. Same rigidity as Ip., the child stiffens out and there is a clucking sound in the oesophagus when the little one comes out of the paroxysm. Grinding of the teeth during sleep. Especially indicated by symptoms of worms and in children who are predisposed there to.

Mag-p.: Schüssler remedy for whooping cough, which begins as does common cold. The attacks are convulsive and nervous, ending in a whoop. Clinically, I have found this remedy, used in the 30th  th potency, to act marvelously in certain epidemics.

[Dr. William Boericke]

Cough in severe paroxysms, with blue or swollen and livid face, with a severe whoop.

Kali-s.: also at times found useful.

Sangin-n.: Hoarseness, rawness in the throat and larynx, and headache.

Kali-bi.: Hoarse cough; child breathes superficially and rapidly to prevent attacks of coughing. Coarser cough than that of Hep., < eating/inspiring deeply; there is a general catarrhal involvement of the nose, throat and frontal sinus, and the expectoration is yellow, tough and stringy, yellow. (Coc-c. not yellow)

 

Pertussin (= Coqueluchin) = a nosode of whooping cough, is advocated by Dr. J.H. Clarke, of London, who claims good results from its use. A spasmodic hacking, deep-sounding, croupy cough with coryza and difficulty in getting the breath seem to be the indications. Cartier and others report success with the remedy. It is better used not lower than the 30th.

 

A Member of the University of Maryland Medical System In Partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Pertussis (= whooping cough), a very contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. Someone with whooping cough will cough violently, often making a "whoop" sound on the in breath.

Whooping cough can be deadly to infants and small children. A vaccine can protect against whooping cough, and children in the U.S. are routinely vaccinated for pertussis. But the disease is making a comeback (infants who have not completed the series of vaccinations, and in teens whose immunity has worn off).

Babies need a series of 3 vaccines before they are fully protected from whooping cough, however, studies show significant protection after just one dose of the vaccine. The vaccine keeps children from getting the disease when they are most at risk. Immunity weakens as we get older, so teens and adults who have been vaccinated can still get a milder form of the disease.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children 11 to 18 get a booster shot that includes a whooping cough vaccine.

Signs and Symptoms

There are 3 stages of the disease.

Stage 1 lasts 1 to 2 weeks:

Upper respiratory infection. (may be mistaken for the common cold)

Slight fever -- less than 100.4° F

Loss of appetite

Very runny nose

Sneezing

Mild, occasional cough

Stage 2 lasts 1 to 6 weeks:

Cough gets < (2 – 50x daily) and coughing spells last longer

Cough may end with a "whooping" sound as the person tries to draw a breath (not all people make the "whoop" sound)

Sudden intense bouts of coughing can cause bulging and tearing eyes, tongue sticking out, and bluish discoloration

Vomiting or choking may follow coughing bouts

Pneumonia may develop

Stage 3 lasts 2 weeks to several months as the cough slowly goes away.

Whooping cough is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. It is spread through droplets coughed or sneezed into the air. It is a highly contagious disease. Adults with a mild form can infect people who have not yet been vaccinated.

What to Expect at Your Doctor's Office

Your doctor may be able to diagnose whooping cough by listening to your cough, however, whooping cough can be hard to diagnose in the early stages. Your provider may take a smear from your nose or throat, and ask you to avoid contact with others while you are contagious. People with complications, severe coughing bouts, or who are under 2 years of age are hospitalized.

Treatment Options

Whooping cough can be deadly to a baby under 6 months of age, and can cause complications even in toddlers. A baby with pertussis should be treated immediately by a doctor. In adults, treatment is largely to control symptoms and prevent spreading. Quarantine, IV fluids and nutrition, oxygen, and a ventilator may be needed in some cases.

Drug Therapies

    Antibiotics -- reduce the chance of giving whooping cough to someone else and help you get better faster. Azithromycin (Zithromax) or erythromycin are often prescribed.

    Corticosteroids such as betamethasone (0.075 mg daily per kilogram of body weight) -- may reduce severity and length of coughing fits, especially in infants.

    Albuterol (0.3 to 0.5 mg daily per kilogram of body weight) -- reduces the severity of coughing fits.

Over-the-counter cough suppressants don't work and should not be used (child under 2).

Surgical and Other Procedures

Doctors may suction secretions and use oxygen, IV fluids, and electrolytes in infants and adults who are at risk for longer illness.

Mist by tent may help infants.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Someone with whooping cough needs antibiotics. Do not use herbs and supplements alone (child). Supplements, herbs, and homeopathy may help you get better faster when used along with conventional medications. Always talk with your doctor if you are using alternative therapies in addition to medication, and work with a knowledgeable provider.

Nutrition

Note: Doses given are for children. Adults should double the amounts.

Give small, frequent meals of vegetable broths, steamed vegetables, and fresh fruit.

Vitamin C (200 to 500 mg, 2 times per day. Children over 4 can have up to 3,000 mg per day in divided doses for short periods of time), zinc (10 to 15 mg per day), and beta-carotene (10,000 to 25,000 IU per day). Be sure to use beta-carotene and not vitamin A. Ask your doctor before giving vitamin supplements to a child.

Herbs are a way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your health care provider to diagnose your problem before starting treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 to 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

Don't use herbs by themselves to treat whooping cough (child). Make sure you have your pediatrician's approval before giving any herb to a child.

There aren't any studies that use specific herbs to treat whooping cough. These herbs have been used traditionally to treat coughs and strengthen the immune system. All have side effects and can interact with other medications, so it's crucial to talk to your doctor or your pediatrician before using any herbs. Your doctor can advise you about whether these herbs would help you or your child, and can help you determine the right dose.

Immune-stimulating herbs:

    Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea). Echinacea can interact with many medications. People with plant allergies should not take echinacea.

    Garlic (All-s.). Garlic can interact with many medications and may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you also take blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix).

    Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus). Astragalus can interact with some medications, including lithium.

Expectorants (help get rid of mucus):

    Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis). Pregnant women should not take hyssop.

    Anise (Pimpinella anisum). Anise may interact with medications that affect hormones, including birth control pills and tamoxifen.

    Elecampane (Inula helenium). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take elecampane. People who are allergic to ragweed, have diabetes, or high or low blood pressure should ask their

            doctor before taking elecampane. Do not take elecampane with any sedative medications.

    Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum)

Antispasmodics:

    Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata). Lobelia can be dangerous, so do not take it except under a doctor's close supervision.

    Catnip (Nepeta cataria). Catnip may cause nausea and vomiting in some people. It can interact with sedatives and lithium. It may also cause heavy periods.

    Chamomile (Matricaria recutita). People who are allergic to ragweed should ask their doctor before taking chamomile.

    Jamaican dogwood (Piscidia erythrina). Jamaican dogwood can be dangerous, so do not take it except under a doctor's strict supervision. It should not be combined with sedative medications.

    Thyme (Thymus vulgaris). Thyme may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you also take blood thinners.

Homeopathy

Although few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following remedies as supplemental treatment for the symptoms of pertussis as long as the underlying infection has been appropriately treated. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type -- your physical, emotional, and psychological makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment for each individual.

    Acon.: Take during the first 24 hours after symptoms appear, particularly if they develop following exposure to cold weather. This remedy is most appropriate for individuals with a hoarse, dry,

            cough who complain of dry mouth, thirst, restlessness, worsened symptoms from cold air or lying on the side, and being awakened from the cough.

    Bry.: for painful cough with a marked tendency to hold their chest or hold something to the chest when coughing.

    Dros.: for dry, spasmodic cough with sharp chest pain and a tickling sensation in the throat that may cause the individual to gag, choke, or vomit. Most appropriate for individuals who tend to be hoarse (< lying down), and perspire during the night.

    Hep.: for later stages of pertussis with wheezing, little mucus production, and coughing that comes on when any part of the body gets cold.

    Ip.: spasmodic cough and gagging or vomiting. This remedy is commonly prescribed for infants.

    Phos.: for several different types of cough, most particularly a dry, harsh cough described as a persistent tickle with sharp chest pain signified by the individual clutching his or her painful Ochest.

            Often worn out and exhausted, have undue anxiety, even fear of death, and require a lot of reassurance.

    Spong.: for harsh, barking cough that produces no mucus and is associated with a tickling in the throat or chest that < lying down and > when the individual eats or drinks warm liquids. This

            remedy is often used when Aconite is unsuccessful.

Physical Medicine

Chest rubs -- Use 3 to 6 drops of essential oil (camphor, thyme, eucalyptus, rosemary) with 1 tbs. food-grade oil (almond, flax, or olive). Avoid getting essential oils in the eyes. Make sure the mixture is not too strong, as it could irritate the respiratory tract. Do not give essential oils by mouth because they can be toxic.

Castor oil pack -- Apply oil to clean soft cloth, place on chest, and cover with plastic wrap. Place a heat source over the pack, and let sit for 30 to 60 minutes. Do not use for more than 4 days in a row. Do not give castor oil by mouth (internally).

 

Place 3 to 6 drops of essential oil in a humidifier or a warm bath.

 

Alternate hot and cold applications to the chest or back. Alternate 3 minutes hot with 1 minute cold.

Acupuncture

 

Although acupuncture has not been studied for whooping cough, some people may use acupuncture to help strengthen the immune system.

Foot massage can be relaxing and may help a child sleep. Some children may not want to be touched, however.

 

Most adults and children make a complete recovery.

Special Considerations

 

Vaccinations are 80 - 90% effective. They last about 12 years.

 

 

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