Krztucowy

Krztucowy is a Polish term that translates to "whooping" or "pertussis-like" in English. It is commonly used to describe a severe, spasmodic cough that is characteristic of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. This cough is often so intense that it can lead to difficulty breathing, vomiting, and even a distinctive "whoop" sound as the person inhales sharply after a coughing fit. While the term directly refers to the cough's nature, it is almost exclusively associated with the bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis.

The illness itself, pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It begins with mild symptoms resembling a common cold, such as a runny nose, low-grade fever, and a mild cough. However, after a week or two, the characteristic coughing fits emerge. These fits can occur in bursts of up to 50 coughs, followed by a high-pitched inhalation, the "whoop." Young infants are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from pertussis, including pneumonia, seizures, and brain damage.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pertussis. The DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis) vaccine is routinely given to children, and booster shots are recommended for adolescents and adults. Despite vaccination efforts, outbreaks can still occur, especially in populations with lower vaccination rates. Medical professionals use the term "krztucowy" to describe the specific cough associated with this potentially serious disease.