🫁 Respiratory System Disorders & Drugs

Influenza (Flu)

Caused by influenza virus types A, B, or C. Vaccination recommended. Treatment includes antivirals and pain relievers. Prevention is key

Influenza – Symptoms

High fever, usually with headache, productive cough (can become severe), severe aches/pains, severe fatigue, sore throat, exhaustion

Common Cold

Viral infection that inflames nose and throat membranes. No antibiotics; treated symptomatically with OTC meds and warm fluids

Cold – Symptoms

Low/no fever, sometimes headache, stuffy/runny nose, mild cough and fatigue, sore throat, normal energy levels

Cold and Flu – Symptom Management

Upper respiratory combo for general symptoms

Cough suppressant, expectorant, or antitussive for cough

Asthma

Chronic inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Common symptoms: wheezing, nighttime/early morning coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness

Asthma Attack

Airways swell or tighten, making breathing hard. Symptoms worsen significantly

Asthma – Treatment

Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation

Combo inhalers with corticosteroid + LABA (long-acting beta agonist)

Asthma – Prevention

Leukotriene receptor antagonists prevent asthma attacks

Asthma Attack – Management

Glucocorticoids used to manage symptoms during an attack

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Common lung disease (includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis) causing restricted airflow and breathing problems

COPD – Symptoms

Bronchospasms: narrowed airways, breathing difficulty, chest pain, coughing

COPD – Treatment

Bronchodilators (anticholinergics or SABA)

Bronchodilator combos with LABA or corticosteroids

Combo meds also used in asthma: Symbicort, Advair Diskus

Tuberculosis (TB)

Bacterial lung infection that can spread. Treatment requires antibiotics. No OTC treatment available

Cystic Fibrosis

Genetic disorder causing thick mucus and lung infections. Treated with physical therapy and antibiotic inhalers

Allergies

Immune reaction to dust, pollen, pet hair, etc

Allergies — Treatment

Antihistamines manage seasonal allergic rhinitis

Corticosteroid nasal sprays relieve nasal allergy symptoms