Hay fever, Cough & Cold Flashcards
What are the symptoms of hay fever? (4)
- Rhinorrhoea
- Nasal congestion
- Itching
- Allergic conjunctivitis
What are the referal criteria for hay fever? (5)
- Pregnancy
- Suspected infection
- Drug induced
- Structural or mechanical reasons
- Systemic conditions associated with mucus (e.g. CF)
Which drugs can induce symptoms of hay fever? (7)
- ACE inhibitors
- Beta blockers
- Chlopromazine
- Aspirin
- NSAIDs
- Cocaine
- Diverse effect of nasal decongestants
What is the first line treatment for someone presenting with general symptoms of hay fever?
Non-sedating antihistamine
At which age are Cetirizine and Loratadine both licensed from?
2 years
At which age is Acrivastine licensed?
Over 12
How often should a non-sedating antihistamine be taken?
Once daily
If a patient taking a non-sedating antihistamine experiences “breakthrough” symptoms, which drug can you recommended instead?
Sedating antihistamine taken at shorter intervals
At what age is chlorphenamine syrup licensed?
Over 1
At what age are chlorphenamine tablets licensed?
Over 6
At what age is promethazine licensed? (syrup and 10mg tablets)
Over 2
Can promethazine 25mg tablets be sold OTC for hay fever?
No, licensed for insominas in patients over 16
If patient is experiencing nasal congestion due to hay fever, what is the recommended OTC treatment?
Nasal corticosteroid
At what age are beconase and nasonex both licensed for?
Over 18
When should nasal corticosteroids be taken for maximal effect?
A week before hay fever begins
Is sudafed nasal decongestant spray recommended for hay fever?
Not recommended but can be used as an adjunct
What is the maximum recommended duration of use for sudafed nasal spray and why?
7 days - risk of rebound congestion
At what age is sudafed blocked nose spray?
Over 12