1. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) and Drug Therapy

Causes of URIs:

Upper respiratory infections are most commonly caused by viruses, including:

• Rhinovirus: The most common cause of the common cold.
• Coronavirus: Can cause colds and more severe illnesses like COVID-19.
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): A common cause of colds in young children.
• Influenza virus: Causes the flu.

While less common, bacteria can also cause URIs.

Drug Therapy for URIs:

There is no cure for viral URIs, but medications can help manage symptoms:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers: Reduce fever and aches (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen).
• Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion (pseudoephedrine – use with caution).
• Cough suppressants: Suppress cough (dextromethorphan – use sparingly).
• Antihistamines: Relieve allergy-like symptoms (diphenhydramine – may cause drowsiness).

Antibiotics are not effective against viruses and should not be used for URIs unless a bacterial infection is suspected.

2. Asthma Triggers and Treatments

Triggers of Asthma:

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes airway hyperresponsiveness. Common triggers include:

• Allergens: Inhaled substances like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
• Irritants: Smoke, air pollution, strong chemicals, and cold air.
• Occupational exposures: Dusts, fumes, and certain chemicals in the workplace.
• Exercise-induced asthma: Symptoms worsen during or after exercise.
• Medications: Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can trigger asthma in some people.
• Emotional stress: Can worsen asthma symptoms.

Treatment Options for Asthma:

Asthma treatment focuses on controlling inflammation and preventing attacks. Common medications include:

• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS): The mainstay of asthma treatment, reducing airway inflammation.
• Long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs): Relax airways to improve breathing, often combined with ICS.
• Short-acting beta2-agonists (SABAs): Quick-relief medication for sudden symptoms (rescue inhalers).
• Leukotriene modifiers: May be used for additional control in some cases.
• Biologics: Targeted therapies for specific types of severe asthma.

It’s crucial to develop a personalized asthma action plan with a doctor to identify triggers and manage symptoms effectively.

3. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a class of medications that mimic the effects of the hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands. They have potent anti-inflammatory properties and are used in various conditions, including:

• Asthma: Inhaled corticosteroids are the first-line treatment to reduce airway inflammation.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): May be used in severe cases to reduce inflammation.
• Autoimmune diseases: Suppress inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
• Skin conditions: Reduce inflammation in eczema and psoriasis.
• Allergic reactions: Reduce inflammation and swelling.

Corticosteroids can have side effects, so it’s important to use them as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Chronic Bronchitis and Treatment Options

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory condition of the airways that causes coughing, mucus production, and difficulty breathing. The main risk factor is smoking, but other irritants can also contribute.

Treatment Options for Chronic Bronchitis:

• Bronchodilators: Relax airways to improve breathing (similar to asthma medications).
• Mucolytics: Thin mucus secretions to make coughing easier.
• Antibiotics: May be used for bacterial infections that worsen chronic bronchitis.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation: Exercise programs to improve lung function and quality of life.
• Smoking cessation: The most crucial step for managing chronic bronchitis and preventing progression.

In severe cases, oxygen therapy might be needed to improve blood oxygen levels.