Colds Flashcards
Background
Most are self limiting. resolve in 7 days some can go to 14.
Persistent is due to secondary infection.
Most common cause of cold symptoms = viral URTI.
Transmission mainly by viruses coming in to contact with the hand then to eye, mouth or nose when these r touched.
Signs and symptoms of common cold
cough, runny nose, stuffed/blocked nose, post nasal drip, sore throat, sputum, fever, sneezing
Treatment
MOST ARE SELF LIMITING
· rest and sleep
· drink plenty of water (fruit juice or squash mixed with water is OK) to avoid dehydration
· gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat (not suitable for children)
. Good hygiene
· Pain killers – paracetamol NSAIDs ibuprofen:
- Ages =/>5 = if person has headache, muscle pain and fever
- Ages <5 = if has fever and is distressed.
Don’t use ibuprofen and paracentral same time, only use when child is distressed, only ALT if distress persist or recurs.
Decongestants:
– Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) (ages >6) AEs – urinary retention, sleep disorder, tremor, dry mouth. AVOID in <6 yrs, P, BF.
- Ephedrine HCl 0.5% nasal drops for nasal congestion in ages =/>12 years: AEs: dyspnoea (SOB), decreased appetite, dizziness, dry mouth, muscle weakness, thirst
- Xylometazoline HCl nasal drops or spray- for nasal congestion in =>6, dose age dependent check cks
Children =<6 should stay away from some OTC cough and cold products:
- Antitussives (Dextromethorphan, pholcodine)
- Expectorants (Guaifensin, ipecacuanha)
- Topical and oral decongestants (ephedrine, oxymetazoline, phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, and xylometazoline)
- Antihistamines (brompheniramine, chlorphenamine, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, promethazine, triprolidine).
THEY CAN USE = cough remedies (glycerine, honey or lemon)
EXAMPLES
LEMSIP cold & flu, Vicks 1st defence, benylin. Honey/glycerin for <6.
No decongestant to <6 yrs. 6-12 MAX 5 days.
REFER:
<6, P, BF, uncler mucus/phlegm, Blood cough, chest pain SOB wheeze, cough >3 weeks, smoker, High persistent fever, on meds
