Pertussis (also known as whooping cough or 100-day cough) is a highly contagious bacterial disease. Initially, symptoms are usually similar to those of the common cold with a runny nose, fever, and mild cough. This is then followed by weeks of severe coughing fits.
Carotid Sinus Massage. Definition. Carotid sinus massage involves rubbing the large part of the arterial wall at the point where the common carotid artery, located in the neck, divides into its two main branches. Purpose. Sinus, in this case, means an area in a blood vessel that is bigger than the rest of the vessel.
A carotid ultrasound is performed to test for narrowed carotid arteries, which increase the risk of stroke. Carotid arteries are usually narrowed by a buildup of plaque â made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances that circulate in the bloodstream.