whooping cough

a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory tract from the nasopharynx to the bronchioles. It is characterized by spasmodic coughing that commonly ends in a prolonged high-pitched whooping inspiration. Complications can include brain hemorrhage, convulsions, anoxia, and damage to vision and hearing. Also called pertussis.

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Psychology term of the day

July 27th 2024

sarcoma

n. see cancer.