Your child could have a runny nose, slight fever, and a cough. These signs do not get better after a few days. The cough gets worse after 10 to 14 days. During a coughing spell, your child's face or nailbeds may turn red, blue, or white from not getting enough oxygen. Coughing spells lasting up to a minute may go on for 2 to 10 weeks.
Some children vomit after a coughing spell.
Ear infections are common with this illness. Signs of an ear infection are ear tugging, ear pain, and fever. Call your doctor if your child has these signs. The risks of serious illness or death from this illness are very small if you follow your doctor's suggestions. Breathing problems and coughing will become worse if the child is crying and afraid.