evidence: Whooping cough causes the body to produce very thick mucus that can block the airways, which induces violent coughing. This coughing, also called paroxysmal coughing, can be strong enough to break ribs, burst blood vessels, and produce hernias. Other complications associated with whooping cough are bacterial pneumonia, seizures, and brain inflammation. Childhood vaccination helps to prevent diseases that are associated with potentially serious complications leading to disability and death.