The evaluation of whooping cough begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with whooping cough include:

• Conjunctival hemorrhage:
• Due to severe coughing

Tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis of whooping cough.

Tests that may be used to evaluate whooping cough include:

• Complete blood count
• Throat culture
• Blood cultures
• Blood antibody testing for the pertussis bacteria
• Chest x-ray