Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

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Respiratory Tract Infections involve lower and upper or both respiratory tract systems. These include the common cold, bronchitis and pneumonia

Common Cold

This is a self-limiting disease caused by viruses and allergies. If it is viral, it is a highly infectious condition comprising mild systemic upset and prominent nasal symptoms

Clinical Features Symptoms

  • Running nose/nasal congestion
  • Cough
  • Irritation of the throat
  • Fever
  • Sneezing

Complications

  • Lower respiratory tract infection (see 6.1.2)
  • Bronchitis and pneumonia

Treatment

  • Analgesics: 
    Aspirin, 600mg 3 - 4 times daily or paracetamol, 500mg - 1g orally 3 - 4 times daily in adults, children; paracetamol, 10 - 20mg/kg 3 times daily
  • Nasal decongestants
  • Cough mixtures may offer symptomatic relief
  • Take plenty of fluids

Note:

  1. Aspirin is not recommended for children under 16 years.
  2. Antibiotics are not indicated

Supportive

  • Advise patient to take plenty of fluids

Laryngotracheobronchitis

This is an inflammation of the larynx, trachea and bronchus following an acute viral respiratory infection.

Clinical features

Symptoms

  • Pain in the larynx
  • Hoarseness of voice
  • Irritating persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fever

Signs

  • Stridor
  • Persistent or recurrent laryngitis

Treatment
Analgesics in early stages

  • Paracetamol, 500mg – 1g orally 3 – 4 times daily in adults, 10 – 20mg/kg
    orally 3 – 4 times daily in children

Supportive

  • Give more fluids and humidification