lecture recording on 18 February 2025 at 19.03.34 PM

Common Cold

• Symptoms: Sore throat, coughing, upset stomach.

• Causes: Caused by viruses.

• Treatment: Symptomatic management using over-the-counter medications, not antibiotics (antibiotics are for bacterial infections).

• Duration: Cough can persist for up to a month but will resolve on its own.

Allergic Rhinitis

• Description: Caused by allergens, often leading to a runny nose.

• Symptoms: Runny nose from exposure to certain allergens such as pollen or mold.

• Treatment: Antihistamines are common treatments.

  • H1 Antihistamines: Examples include Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Zyrtec (loratadine).

  • Benadryl: Sedating, often used to help with sleep.

  • Zyrtec: Non-sedating, does not cause tiredness.

• Mechanism of Action: Antihistamines block H1 receptors, inhibiting the action of histamine to reduce allergic symptoms.

• Side Effects of Antihistamines: Dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, sedation.

• Contraindications: Severe asthma, COPD, narrow-angle glaucoma, high blood pressure, and kidney disease.

Cough Treatments

• Types of Cough: Productive cough (with phlegm) vs. nonproductive cough (dry).

  • Antitussives: Used for nonproductive coughs, can cause respiratory depression if overly administered.

  • Dexteromethorphan: A common non-opioid cough suppressant that raises cough threshold.

• Expectorants: Like Mucinex, help thin mucus and facilitate coughing.

• Cough Reflex: Important for clearing secretions, productive coughs are usually beneficial.

Decongestants

• Types: Oral and nasal decongestants.

  • Nasal Decongestants: Such as Flonase, may cause rebound congestion if used longer than directed.

  • Oral Decongestants: Can have side effects like nervousness, insomnia, palpitations.

• Use in Patients: Caution in patients with asthma or diabetes.

• Mechanism: Work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.

Asthma and COPD Overview

• Asthma: Reversible inflammation of bronchial tubes.

  • Symptoms: Wheezing, cough, shortness of breath especially at night.

  • Triggers: Allergens, exercise, viral infections, smoke.

• COPD: Irreversible airway obstruction associated primarily with smoking.

  • Includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

• Bronchodilators: Medications used in treating asthma and COPD.

  • Short-acting Beta Agonists (SABAs): Such as albuterol, used for quick relief during asthma attacks.

  • Long-acting Beta Agonists (LABAs): Used for maintenance therapy (e.g., salmeterol).

  • Anticholinergics: Often better for COPD such as tiotropium.

  • Methylxanthines: Such as theophylline, have a narrow therapeutic window and potential side effects.

• Common Side Effects Across Bronchodilators: Tremors, insomnia, tachycardia, and potential cardiac issues.

Patient Education and Nursing Implications

• Administration Techniques: Proper inhaler technique is crucial; patients should be taught to use spacers for optimal delivery.

• Monitoring: Monitor lung sounds, vital signs, and response to treatment.

• Assessment of Side Effects: Watch for dehydration, thrush in inhaler users, and specific drug-related toxicity (especially theophylline).

• Education on Rinse Protocol: Inhaler use can lead to oral infections, encourage rinsing the mouth after use.