Common Cold

 Common Cold 

Common cold also known as viral rhinitis. It causes inflammation of membranes that lined nose and throat. 

The causative agent of common cold is Rhinovirus. It causes viral upper respiratory tract infection.

Etiology

1. Viral infection

2. Seasonal common cold

Pathophysiology 

When the nasal cells infected by the Rhinovirus, inflammatory mediators are released such as; histamine, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, kinins,  cytokines (interleukin).

Cause blood vessel dilation and leakage of blood vessels and mucus gland secretion.

Inflammation of mucosa of nose

Inflammatory mediators stimulate sneeze and cough reflexes and stimulate pain nerve fibres.

Symptoms of common cold appear.

Mode of Transmission of Infection

1. Rhinovirus

2. Direct hand to hand contact with infected secretion

3. Contact with infected respiratory secretion

4. Through the air droplets by coughing and sneezing

5. By touching contaminated surface and object such as; towel, handkerchief, pencil

Clinical Manifestations

1. Nasal stiffness or nasal drainage 

2. Nasal congestion

3. Post-nasal drip

4. Runny nose or blocked nose

5. Sneezing/ Coughing 

6. Loss of smell

7. Watery eye, itching, redness

8. Low grade fever

9. Sore throat/ scratchy throat 

10. Muscle pain

Treatment

Supportive treatment include;

1. Decongestant (for adult only) nasal spray 

2. Antihistamines (for adult only)

3. Salt water gargle

4. Warm bath

5. Antipyretic and analgesic; Acetaminophen

Note; Asprin or asprin containing medication not given to children, it's associated with Reye's syndrome (swelling in liver and brain).

6. Drink plenty of warm fluids

7. Antibiotics are not working in common cold.

Prevention

1. Wash hands thoroughly

2. Avoid direct contact with infected person

3. Don't use personal objects of infected person

4. Cover nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing

5. Try to avoid utensils

6. Maintain hygiene