1. COMMON COLD (NASOPHARYNGITIS, RHINOPHARYNGITIS, viral rhinitis )

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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.