COMMON COLD (NASOPHARYNGITIS, RHINOPHARYNGITIS, viral rhinitis )

Most frequent viral infection in the general population It is self limited and caused by virus Definition – it is an acute inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity characterized by nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, sore throat and general malaise

Causes Rhinovirus Influenza virus Corona virus Adenoviruses Respiratory syncytial virus Entero virus Transmission – airborne droplets, direct contact with infected nasal secretions. Weather – prolonged exposure to cold weather Upper Respiratory tract infections Poor immunity Malnutrition

Pathophysiology Direct contact Virus can stay in the unhygienic hands for hours Enter into naso pharynx Binds to ICAM-1 (Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1)  protein (protein present in leukocytes) Through unknown mechanism trigger inflammatory mediators Signs and Symptoms

Clinical manifestations Low grade fever Nasal congestion Rhinorrhea Nasal discharge Halitosis Sneezing Tearing watery eyes Scratchy or sore throat General malaise Chills Often headache and muscle aches If illness progress, cough usually appears (influenza flu) Symptoms last for 1 to 2 weeks

Medical management Self limiting Symptomatic therapy Adequate fluid intake, rest, prevention of chills and use of expectorants Warm salt water gargles soothe the sore throat NSAIDS – aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve aches and pains Antihistamines – to relieve sneezing, rhinorrhea and nasal congestion.

Guaifenesin – expectorant, promote removal of secretions Antiviral medications – amantadine, rimatadine – reduce the severity of the symptoms and reduce the duration of the common cold Topical nasal decongestants (phenyelphrine nasal, oxymetazoline nasal) Herbal medicines – echinacea, zinc nasal spray Inhalation of steam – home remedies

Nursing management Teaching patients self care Viruses transmitted through several ways – direct contact with infected secretions, during coughing and sneezing, Hand washing – effective measure Importance of being hygiene Importance of vaccination Awareness programme in day care centers, schools and community based.