Cough and Cold

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cough and cold, including treatment options, patient considerations, and therapeutic classifications.

Self-care treatment

Evaluating if a patient is appropriate for managing their cough or cold without professional intervention.

Viral infection

An infection caused by a virus, such as those responsible for the common cold.

Rhinovirus

A virus that is one of the primary causes of the common cold.

Postnasal drainage

The accumulation of mucus in the throat which can lead to coughing.

Antibiotics

Medications ineffective against viral infections.

Decongestants

Medications used to relieve nasal congestion.

Expectorants

Medications that help clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

Antitussives

Medications that suppress coughing.

Acute cough

A cough that lasts less than three weeks.

Chronic cough

A cough that persists for more than eight weeks.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to reduce inflammation and pain.

Guaifenesin

An expectorant that helps relieve symptoms of acute productive cough.

Dextromethorphan

A non-opioid antitussive used to suppress cough.

Codeine

An opioid used as an antitussive in some states.

Honey

Natural remedy safe for children over 1 year old that can reduce nighttime cough.

Hand hygiene

Frequent washing of hands to prevent the transmission of viruses.

Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the throat, commonly associated with colds.

Cough classification

Categories of cough, including acute, subacute, and chronic.

Low grade fever

A mild form of fever, typically less than 100°F.

Avoidance of MAO inhibitors

Patients using certain medications should not take decongestants.

Histamine

A compound involved in allergic reactions and sneezing.

Cavernous sinusoids

Vascular spaces in the nasal region that are affected by congestion.

Zinc

A supplement thought to block rhinovirus adhesion and inhibit replication.

Vitamin C

A vitamin that may act as a prophylactic agent for colds.

Vaporizers

Devices that add moisture to the air and help relieve respiratory symptoms.

Herbal therapies

Natural treatment options such as herbal supplements that may provide relief.

Adverse reactions

Unwanted effects that occur due to medications or treatments.

Rebound congestion

Worsening symptoms after discontinuation of nasal sprays.

Cough suppression

Reducing the frequency or intensity of coughing.

Nasal saline

A solution used to clear nasal passages and relieve congestion.

Post-infectious cough

A cough that remains after an upper respiratory infection.

Cough treatment algorithm

A systematic approach to assess and treat cough.

Preventing transmission

Measures to reduce the spread of cold viruses to others.

Self-inoculation

The process of transferring pathogens from one part of one's own body to another.

Cough management goals

To reduce cough frequency and severity while preventing complications.

Cough symptoms assessment

Evaluating the presentation and characteristics of a patient's cough.

Combination products

Medications that contain multiple active ingredients for symptomatic relief.

Antiviral tissues

Tissues designed to reduce the transmission of viruses.

Medical referral criteria

Specific symptoms that indicate the need to refer the patient to a medical professional.

Pediatric considerations

Special considerations when treating cough and colds in children.

Chronic conditions

Long-lasting health issues that might complicate cold and cough treatment.

Environmental irritants

Substances in the environment that can trigger coughing or respiratory issues.