Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

Causes: URIs are most commonly caused by viruses, including:

• Rhinoviruses (most common cause)
• Coronaviruses (including COVID-19)
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Adenoviruses

Bacteria can also cause URIs, but less frequently.

Drug Therapy: No specific medication cures viral URIs. Treatment focuses on symptom relief:

• Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion. (Use with caution in people with high blood pressure or glaucoma)
• Antihistamines: Reduce allergy-like symptoms such as runny nose and itchy eyes.
• Cough Suppressants: Not typically recommended for adults as coughing helps clear mucus.
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage fever, headache, and muscle aches.
• Antibiotics: Ineffective against viruses and should only be used if a bacterial infection is present.

Prevention:

• Frequent handwashing
• Avoiding close contact with sick people
• Getting enough sleep
• Maintaining a healthy immune system

Asthma

Triggers: Various factors can trigger asthma attacks, including:

• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold
• Irritants: Smoke, air pollution, strong cleaning chemicals
• Respiratory infections: Common cold, flu
• Exercise-induced asthma: Triggered by physical exertion
• Emotional stress: Can worsen asthma symptoms

Treatment Options:

• Inhaled corticosteroids: The mainstay of asthma treatment, reducing inflammation in the airways.
• Long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs): Relax airway muscles, providing long-term control.
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs): Reduce inflammation and mucus production in the airways (often used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids).
• Quick-relief inhalers: Bronchodilators like albuterol, used to rapidly open airways during an asthma attack.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a class of medications that mimic the effects of the hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands. They have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Inhaled corticosteroids are the preferred treatment for asthma due to their effectiveness in controlling inflammation with minimal side effects when used at recommended doses.

Topical corticosteroids may be used for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Oral corticosteroids are prescribed for more severe conditions like autoimmune diseases or asthma exacerbations, but their use is limited due to potential side effects like weight gain, bone weakening, and increased risk of infection.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the airways (bronchi) in the lungs.

Causes:

• Smoking: The leading cause, damaging the lining of the airways and leading to excessive mucus production.
• Long-term exposure to irritants: Air pollution, dust, or chemical fumes.

Symptoms:

• Persistent cough with mucus production (lasting for at least 3 months in a year)
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

Treatment Options:

• Smoking cessation: The most crucial step for managing chronic bronchitis.
• Bronchodilators: Relax airway muscles, easing breathing difficulties.
• Mucus thinners: Help loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation: Exercise programs and breathing techniques to improve lung function and quality of life.
• Antibiotics: May be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present.

In severe cases, oxygen therapy might be necessary to support breathing.