Coryza (Common cold)

Coryza (Common cold)

Acute inflammation of the upper respiratory tract

Cause

• Viruses − several types, often rhinoviruses

Clinical features

• Onset usually sudden

• Tickling sensation in nose and sneezing

• Throat dry and sore

• Profuse nasal watery discharge

• Thick purulent nasal discharge

  suggests secondary infection

Complications

• Sinusitis

• Lower respiratory tract infection (pneumonia)

• Deafness, otitis media

• Headache

• Earache

Differential diagnosis

• Nasal allergy

Management

-Common cold is a viral disease and so does not require any antibiotics.

  Give only symptomatic treatment:

-Increase fluid intake, preferably warm drinks

-Give analgesics,

For breastfeeding children:

Continue breastfeeding

Clear the nose to ease breathing or feeding

Keep the child warm

Prevention

• Avoid contact with infected persons

• Include adequate fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet