Upper respiratory tract infection

• What is an URTI?


  Infection of upper airways

  Usually viral

  Referred to as a 'cold'
• What are the common causes of URTIs?

  Rhinoviruses

  Coronaviruses

  Adenoviruses

  Enteroviruses

  RSV

  Metapneumovirus

  Influenza viruses
• Pathophys - URTI


  Virus transmitted (via droplets (sneezes, coughs, talking) or direct contact with infectious secretions) -> infect mucosa of nose, mouth, pharynx & larynx -> inflammation of these areas
• What are the signs & symptoms of URTIs?

  Coryza (rhinorrhoea, nasal congestion, loss of smell)

  Sneezing

  Cough

  Sore throat

  Low grade fever

  Malaise

  Headache

  Hoarse voice

  Conjunctival infection
• What are the DDx of URTIs?


  Allergic rhinitis

  Influenza

  Whooping cough (prodromal symptoms are similar)

  Infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever)

  Nasal foreign body -> important to differentiate in small children (persistent unilateral nasal discomfort & discharge, may be bloody)
• What are the Inx for URTIs?


  Obs

  Full Hx & examination

  Viral swabs
• What is the management of URTIs?

  Adequate fluid intake

  Rest

  Vapour rubs

  Inhaling steam or nasal saline drops -> help with nasal congestion

  Lozenges or analgesic throat sprays

  Analgesia

  Prevent spread -> good hand hygiene, avoid sharing towels

  Safety net

  • seek medical advice if symptoms continue to worsen or no improvement after 10 days
• What are the possible complications of URTIs?

  Acute otitis media

  Sinusitis

  Exacerbations of asthma

  Pneumonia
• How long do URTIs take to resolve in children?


  Around 2 weeks (cough may remain present for several weeks)

  Symptoms typically peak over 2-3 days