Definition: a viral illness in which the symptoms of rhinorrhea & nasal obstruction are prominent.

  • Rhinitis,
  • rhinosinusitis,
  • (rhinoconjunctivitis)

EPIDEMIOL0GY Colds occur year-round, but the incidence is greatest from the early fall until the late spring.

Y

Clinical manifestation

The onset of 1-3 days after viral infection.

sore or “scratchy” throat, followed closely by nasal obstruction and nasal discharge

Systemic manifestations:

  • Fever, chills, restlessness, bone aches, headache and anorexia
  • The usual cold persists for about 1 week, although 10% last for 2wk.

Symptomatic treatment:

  1. antiviral ttt ??

  2. nasal decongestants: Effective topical adrenergic agents such as xylometazoline, oxymetazoline, or phenylephrine. (Reduced-strength formulations of these medications are available for use in younger children, although they are not approved for use in children <2 yr old)

  3. Anti pyretics e.g -----------paracetamol

  4. Cough sedatives

  5. supportive: hydration, hot drinks…..etc

    Children should never take ASA (acetylsalicylic acid) for a viral infection of the respiratory tract. - Reye’s Syndrome

Differential diagnosis :

  • Infections: Sinusitis, pharyngitis
  • Allergy: allergic rhinitis
  • Others……………….

Complications:Y

URT: otitis media, sinusitis and periorbital cellulitis …. LRT: laryngeobronchitis, bronchiolitis and asthma attacks