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Author: Robert W Tolan Jr, MD, Chief of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Saint Peter's University Hospital; Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine

Robert W Tolan, Jr, is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, American Society for Microbiology, American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, Phi Beta Kappa, and Physicians for Social Responsibility

Coauthor(s): Mai Ngoc Nguyen, MD, Staff Physician, Department of Pediatrics, Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles; James D Korb, MD, Program Director, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Orange County

Editors: José Rafael Romero, MD, Director of Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Combined Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Creighton University/University of Nebraska Medical Center; Mary L Windle, PharmD, Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Editor, eMedicine.com, Inc; Larry I Lutwick, MD, Director, Division of Infectious Diseases, Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Health Care System, Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York at Downstate; Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine; Russell W Steele, MD, Professor and Vice Chairman, Department of Pediatrics, Head, Division of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center

Author and Editor Disclosure

Synonyms and related keywords: common cold, nasopharyngitis, rhinovirus infection, RV infection, upper respiratory infection, URI, lower respiratory infection, LRI, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, ICAM-1, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, throat irritation, coronaviruses, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, RSV, adenovirus

Background

Rhinoviruses (RVs) are small (30 nm), nonenveloped viruses that contain a single-strand RNA genome within an icosahedral (20-sided) capsid. RVs belong to the Picornaviridae family, which includes the genera Enterovirus (polioviruses, coxsackieviruses groups A and B, echoviruses, numbered enteroviruses, parechoviruses) and Hepatovirus (hepatitis A virus). Approximately 101 serotypes have been identified.

This article focuses on the common cold because it is most frequently associated with RV. Nasopharyngitis, croup, and pneumonia, which are uncommonly caused by RV, are also briefly discussed. RV plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of otitis media and asthma exacerbations. Although incidence and prevalence are high, most cases are mild and self-limited.

Pathophysiology

RV can be transmitted by aerosol or direct contact. The primary site of inoculation is the nasal mucosa, although the conjunctiva may be involved to a lesser extent. RV attaches to respiratory epithelium and locally spreads. The major human RV receptor is intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). The natural response of the human defense system to injury involves ICAM-1, which aids the binding between endothelial cells and leukocytes. RV takes advantage of the ICAM-1 by using it as a receptor for attachment. In addition, RV uses ICAM-1 for subsequent viral uncoating during cell invasion. Some RV serotypes also up-regulate ICAM-1 expression on human epithelial cells to increase susceptibility to infection.

The optimal temperature for RV replication is 33-35°C. RV does not efficiently replicate at body temperature. This may explain why RV replicates well in the nasal passages and upper tracheobronchial tree but less well in the lower respiratory tract. The incubation period is approximately 2-3 days. Viremia is uncommon.

RV is shed in large amounts, with as many as 1 million infectious virions present per mL of nasal washings. Viral shedding can occur a few days before cold symptoms are recognized by the patient, peaks on days 2-7 of the illness, and may last as long as 3-4 weeks.

A local inflammatory response to the virus in the respiratory tract can lead to nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, and throat irritation. Damage to the nasal epithelium does not occur, and inflammation is mediated by the production of cytokines and other mediators.

Histamine concentrations in nasal secretions do not increase. By days 3-5 of the illness, nasal discharge can become mucopurulent from polymorphonuclear leukocytes that have migrated to the infection site in response to chemoattractants such as interleukin-8. Nasal mucociliary transport is markedly reduced during the illness and may be impaired for weeks. Both secretory immunoglobulin A and serum antibodies are involved in resolving the illness and protecting from reinfection.

Coronaviruses, reinfections with parainfluenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the most important of many other viruses that can cause common colds. Other viruses (eg, adenoviruses, influenza viruses) also can cause common colds but are more likely to cause acute nasopharyngitis and more severe respiratory infections.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae can occasionally present with common cold symptoms before developing into more extensive respiratory disease. Other pathogens include Coccidioides immitis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Bordetella pertussis, Chlamydia psittaci, and Coxiella burnetii.

Recent clinical studies indicate sinus involvement in common colds. Abnormalities on CT scan findings (eg, opacification, air-fluid levels, mucosal thickening) are present in adults with common colds that resolve over 1-2 weeks without antibiotic therapy.

Despite what is reported in folklore, no good clinical evidence reports that colds are acquired by exposure to cold weather, getting wet, or becoming chilled.

Frequency

United States

Common colds are most frequent from September to April in temperate climates. RV infections, which are present throughout the year, account for the initial increase in cold incidence during the fall and a second incidence peak at the end of the spring season. Colds that occur from October through March are caused by the successive appearance of numerous viruses, including parainfluenza, coronavirus, RSV, and influenza virus. Adenoviral infections occur at a constant rate throughout the season.

Several studies demonstrate the incidence of the common cold to be highest in preschool and elementary school-aged children. An average of 3-8 colds per year is observed in this age group, with an even higher incidence in children who attend daycare and preschool. Because of the numerous viral agents involved and the many serotypes of several viruses (especially RV), younger children having new colds each month during the winter season is not unusual. Adults and adolescents typically have 2-4 colds per year.

International

A seasonal increase in incidence during the winter months is observed worldwide.

Mortality/Morbidity

The most common manifestation of RV, the common cold, is mild and self-limited. However, severe respiratory disease, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia, can rarely occur in infants.

Race

Native Americans and Eskimos are more likely to develop the common cold and appear to have more frequent complications such as otitis media. These findings may be explained as much by environmental conditions (eg, poverty, overcrowding) as by ethnicity.

Age

Because antibodies to viral serotypes develop over time, the highest incidence is found in infants and young children. In addition, young children are more likely to have the frequent, close, personal contact necessary to transmit RV. Contrary to the experience of adults, children may also be more contagious due to having higher virus concentrations in secretions and longer duration of viral shedding.



History

Rhinoviruses (RVs) cause or predispose to various upper respiratory infections (URIs) and lower respiratory infections (LRI), which are less common.

  • Common cold
    • Nose dryness or irritation is often the first symptom and is followed within hours by profuse watery rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and sneezing.
    • A sore throat or throat irritation is common.
    • Malaise, headache, and cough are also common symptoms of the common cold.
    • Fever is absent or low grade. Infants and preschoolers are more likely to experience fevers, which are often 38-39°C.
    • Nasal secretions typically become thicker and colored after the first few days of illness.
    • Irritability or restlessness is common.
    • Nasal obstruction can interfere with sleep and feeding.
    • Posttussive vomiting can occur.
    • Symptoms in adults and adolescents usually resolve by day 7; however, symptoms often last 10-14 days in younger children.
  • Acute otitis media
    • Viral URIs are common precipitating factors for acute otitis media (AOM). This is likely because they cause respiratory mucosal inflammation that leads to eustachian tube obstruction.
    • Respiratory viruses are found in either the middle ear fluid or nasopharynx in approximately 40% of patients with AOM.
    • As many as 24% of patients with AOM have RV present in nasopharyngeal secretions. RV has also been obtained from middle ear fluid.
    • Patients whose symptoms are refractory to treatment with antibiotics are more likely to have positive viral cultures from the middle ear.
  • Sinusitis: Preceding RV infection can lead to bacterial superinfection.
  • Asthma exacerbations
    • Viral URI is a common trigger for asthma exacerbations in children of all ages.
    • In children younger than 5 years, RV and RSV are the most commonly implicated pathogens. RV is the most commonly implicated pathogen in older children.
  • LRI: RV may cause both pneumonia and bronchiolitis in infants.
  • Croup: RV may cause laryngotracheobronchitis in infants.
  • Acute nasopharyngitis
    • Acute nasopharyngitis is most commonly caused by adenovirus, enteroviruses, influenza, and parainfluenza.
    • RV is an uncommon cause of acute nasopharyngitis.
    • Common colds, by definition, do not have objective evidence of pharyngeal irritation.
  • Cystic fibrosis: RV is the implicated virus in as many as 57% of respiratory exacerbations.
  • Transmission modes
    • RV possesses various transmission modes and can infect a huge population at any given time.
    • Aerosol transmission is the most common transmission mode for respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Transmission occurs when small airborne particles are inhaled or large droplets are directly touched.
    • Direct hand contact with infected secretions or indirect contact with fomites is also important. Patients then infect themselves by touching their noses or conjunctivae.
    • Highly contagious behavior includes nose blowing, sneezing, and physically transferring infected secretions onto environmental surfaces or paper tissue.
    • Contrary to popular belief, behaviors such as kissing, talking, coughing, or even drooling do not contribute highly to the spread of disease.
    • Infection rates approximate 50% within the household and range from 0-50% within schools, which indicates that transmission requires long-term contact with infected individuals. Brief exposures to others in places such as movie theaters, shopping malls, friends' houses, or doctors' offices incur low risk of transmission.
    • The incubation period is approximately 2-4 days.
    • Because children carry the fewest antibodies, children who attend school are the most common reservoirs of RV infection.

Physical

Physical characteristics of the common cold include the following:

  • The common cold is usually afebrile, although temperatures of 38-39°C are possible in younger children.
  • Profuse nasal discharge can be clear and watery or mucopurulent. Purulent secretions are common after the first few days of illness and do not imply bacterial sinusitis unless secretions persist for more than 10-14 days.
  • Edema and erythema of nasal mucosae may be present.
  • Despite sore throat, the pharynx has a normal appearance, without any erythema, exudate, or ulceration.
  • Mildly enlarged nontender cervical lymph nodes are present.

Causes

Factors that increase infection risk and severity are as follows:

  • Smoking increases risk of respiratory infection by approximately 50%.
  • Very young or old individuals are at greater risk, possibly due to decreased immunity.
  • Exposure to infected contacts increases infection risk.
  • Touching the conjunctivae or nose with contaminated fingers and/or objects increases infection risk.
  • Crowding leads to increased transmission.
  • Men may have a slightly, probably insignificant, higher risk.
  • Breastfeeding has little effect on the incidence of the common cold.
  • Underlying chronic medical conditions, including anatomic, metabolic, genetic, or immunologic disorders (ie, tracheoesophageal fistula, congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, immunodeficiency) increase infection risk and severity.



Afebrile Pneumonia Syndrome
Allergic Rhinitis
Bronchiolitis
Bronchitis, Acute and Chronic
Human Metapneumovirus
Influenza
Parainfluenza Virus Infections
Pertussis
Pneumonia
Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Sinusitis

Other Problems to be Considered

Acute nasopharyngitis



Lab Studies

  • Diagnostic studies are generally unnecessary for patients with the common cold.
    • Clinical signs and symptoms of the common cold, by definition, are similar regardless of the infectious etiology.
    • In addition, with approximately 100 different serotypes of rhinovirus (RV) alone, assisting the diagnosis by serologic methods is economically impractical.
    • WBC count has little value in the diagnosis of the common cold.
  • If a specific viral diagnosis is desired, the virus can be cultured from nasal secretions.
    • Nasal washings are more sensitive than throat specimens.
    • Direct antigen tests are routinely available for influenza and RSV. Some centers offer direct antigen tests for parainfluenza and adenovirus.

Imaging Studies

  • Routine use of imaging studies is unnecessary.
  • More than 85% of patients with the common cold have sinus abnormalities on CT scan. A diagnosis of bacterial sinusitis is unlikely if symptom duration is fewer than 10-14 days.



Medical Care

  • The following treatment options are still experimental and not proven:
    • Developing a vaccine: Development of a vaccine is nearly impossible because of the numerous serotypes. No antiviral agents are available to treat infections.
    • Accelerating nasal drainage: Hot chicken soup causes a temperature increase that accelerates nasal drainage. Be aware of possible hypernatremia.
    • Providing inhaled, warm, humidified air: Nasal hyperthermia is based on the fact that increased temperatures inhibit RV replication in vitro. Inhaled, warm, humidified air (40 L/min at 40-44°C in nostrils) has produced inconsistent findings in several studies.
    • Using aroma rubs, homeopathic and/or herbal remedies, and ultrafine high-volume filtration systems: These treatment options have yet to be studied.
    • Using experimental drugs: Many experimental drugs are currently in trials or have not been approved for consumer use. These include capsid-binding agents, pirodavir, WIN 54954, intranasal interferon (IF), virus receptor blockers, antireceptor antibodies, and soluble ICAM-1.
  • Most treatment provides supportive measures for respiratory illness symptoms. Conventional treatments for the common cold include the following:
    • Using phenol-alcohol–based compounds (Lysol) to disinfect the environment
    • Washing hands
    • Obtaining rest, plenty of fluids, and reassurance that the usual viral course is 6-10 days
    • Positioning mattress at a 45° angle
    • Providing comfortable surrounding temperature and adequate humidity (This treatment method soothes irritated nasopharyngeal mucosae and helps eliminate nasal secretions by preventing dryness.)
    • Using decongestants (Decongestants and antihistamines are not recommended for children younger than 6 mo and have not been shown to be efficacious at any age.)
    • Using nasal saline drops with bulb syringe nostril aspiration (This treatment can help infants with congestion and obstruction.)
    • Discontinuing smoking or using alcohol

Consultations

Refer to an allergist if patient has chronic rhinitis that is unresponsive to environmental and pharmacologic intervention.



Symptomatic treatment with analgesics, decongestants, antihistamines, and antitussives is currently the mainstay of therapy. Some clinicians advocate supplementation with vitamin C; however, high doses in children are not recommended. Zinc lozenges are not practical because of the metallic taste. Other drugs that are currently experimental or not approved for rhinovirus include the following:

  • Interferon alpha: Most effective for cold prevention, interferon alpha is ineffective for established colds. When administered through nasal spray, 80% of secondary rhinovirus (RV) colds were prevented. Interferon alpha is not cost-effective. Significant adverse effects have been reported.
  • Pirodavir: A substituted phenoxy-pyridazinamine, pirodavir, possesses broad antipicornavirus activity. Clinical studies demonstrate no decrease in viral shedding or symptoms.
  • WIN 54954: A methylisoxazole derivative, WIN 54954, has no significant antiviral or clinical effects.
  • Virus receptor blockers: These drugs are hypothesized to block virus internalization to prevent replication.
  • Antireceptor antibody: Tests demonstrate no decrease in infection frequency.
  • Soluble ICAM-1: This drug consists of a molecule that blocks replication by binding receptor sites and inhibiting viral attachment and internalization. Currently, no clinical trials have been performed.

Remind parents that treatment of children younger than 2 years should be supervised by a physician. Doses for analgesics, cough suppressants, decongestants, and antihistamines should only be given upon the advice of a physician for children younger than 2 years. Emphasize that although OTC medications can be bought without a prescription that does not mean that they are harmless. Adverse effects, including deaths have occurred when unintentional overdose has occurred, or when given in addition to prescription or additional OTC medications that contain the same ingredients. For more information see CDC MMWR: Infant Deaths Associated with Cough and Cold Medications.

Drug Category: Analgesic and antipyretic agents

These agents are used for relief of pain, discomfort, or fever. They inhibit central synthesis and release of prostaglandins that mediate effect of endogenous pyrogens in hypothalamus; thus, they promote return of set-point temperature to within the reference range. Ibuprofen also possesses anti-inflammatory properties.

Drug NameIbuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
DescriptionOne of few NSAIDs indicated for reduction of fever.
Adult Dose200-400 mg PO q4-6h while symptoms persist, not to exceed 3.2 g/d
Pediatric Dose5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 40 mg/kg/d or 2.4 g/d
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; aspirin; active GI bleeding and ulcer disease
InteractionsCoadministration with aspirin increases risk of inducing serious NSAID-related adverse effects; probenecid may increase concentrations and, possibly, toxicity of NSAIDs; may decrease effect of hydralazine, captopril, and beta-blockers; may decrease diuretic effects of furosemide and thiazides; may increase PT when taking anticoagulants (instruct patients to watch for signs of bleeding); may increase risk of methotrexate toxicity; phenytoin levels may be increased when concurrently administered
PregnancyC - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
PrecautionsCategory D in third trimester of pregnancy; caution in congestive heart failure, hypertension, and decreased renal and hepatic function; caution in anticoagulation abnormalities or during anticoagulant therapy; caution in infants and young children; do not use in neonates secondary to CNS effects

Drug NameAcetaminophen (Tylenol, Feverall, Tempra)
DescriptionReduces fever by directly acting on hypothalamic heat-regulating centers, which increases dissipation of body heat via vasodilation and sweating.
Adult Dose325-650 mg PO q4-6h or 1000 mg tid/qid, not to exceed 4 g/d
Pediatric Dose10-15 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6h, not to exceed 2.6 g/d
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; known G-6-PD deficiency
InteractionsRifampin can reduce acetaminophen analgesic effects; coadministration with barbiturates, carbamazepine, hydantoins, and isoniazid may increase hepatotoxicity
PregnancyB - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
PrecautionsContained in many OTC products, and combined use with these products may result in cumulative doses exceeding recommended maximum dose; caution parents regarding varying concentrations of OTC products

Drug Category: Antihistamines

These agents relieve runny nose, watery eyes, or other allergylike symptoms. They act by competitive inhibition of histamine at H1 receptor. This mediates wheal and flare reactions, bronchial constriction, mucous secretions, smooth muscle contraction, edema, hypotension, CNS depression, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Drug NameBrompheniramine (Dimetapp, Dimetane)
DescriptionAlkylamine antihistamine primarily used for treating allergic symptoms.
Adult DoseRegular release: 4 mg PO q4-6h
SR: 8 mg PO q8-12h; 12 mg PO q12h
Pediatric Dose<6 years: 0.5 mg/kg/d PO divided q6-8h, not to exceed 6-8 mg/d
6-12 years: 2-4 mg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 12-16 mg/d
>12 years: Administer as in adults
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; narrow-angle glaucoma; bladder-neck obstruction; concurrent use of MAOIs
InteractionsPotentiates effect of CNS depressants; MAOIs, sympathomimetics; propranolol
PregnancyB - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
PrecautionsHigh blood pressure; heart disease; diabetes; thyroid disease; asthma; glaucoma

Drug Category: Decongestants

These agents relieve congestion of nasal passages or sinuses.

Drug NamePseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
DescriptionStimulates vasoconstriction by directly activating alpha-adrenergic receptors of respiratory mucosa. Also induces bronchial relaxation and increases heart rate and contractility by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors.
Adult Dose60 mg q4-6h or 120 mg SR q12h, not to exceed 240 mg/d
Pediatric Dose6-12 years: 4 mg/kg/d PO divided q6h
>12 years: 30-60 mg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 240 mg/d
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; severe anemia; postural hypertension or hypotension; closed-angle glaucoma; head trauma; cerebral hemorrhage
InteractionsPropranolol, MAOIs, and sympathomimetic agents may increase toxicity; methyldopa and reserpine may reduce effects
PregnancyB - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals
PrecautionsHyperthyroidism; diabetes mellitus; prostatic hypertrophy; mild-to-moderate hypertension; arrhythmia; hyperglycemia

Drug NamePhenylephrine nasal (Neo-Synephrine)
DescriptionStrong postsynaptic alpha-receptor stimulant with little beta-adrenergic activity; produces vasoconstriction of arterioles, which decreases congestion.
Adult Dose2-3 gtt or 1-2 sprays intranasally of 0.5% solution q4h
Pediatric Dose6-12 months: 1-2 gtt intranasally of 0.16% solution q3h prn
1-6 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally of 0.125% solution q4h prn
6-12 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally or 1-2 sprays of 0.25% solution q4h prn
>12 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally or 1-2 sprays of 0.5% solution q4h
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; pheochromocytoma and severe hypertension; acute pancreatitis; hepatitis; myocardial disease; severe coronary disease; peripheral or mesenteric vascular thrombosis
InteractionsBretylium may potentiate action of vasopressors on adrenergic receptors, possibly resulting in arrhythmias; MAOIs may significantly enhance adrenergic effects, and pressor response may be increased 2- to 3-fold; guanethidine may increase pressor response of direct-acting vasopressors, possibly resulting in severe hypertension
PregnancyC - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
PrecautionsArrhythmia; hyperthyroidism; hyperglycemia

Drug Category: Antitussive agents

These agents centrally or peripherally act (or combination of both) on cough reflex. Central-acting agents increase threshold of cough center in brain to incoming stimuli, whereas those acting peripherally decrease sensitivity of receptors in respiratory tract.

Drug NameDextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym)
DescriptionAntitussive and/or expectorant that comes as single entity or in various cough and cold preparations in various combinations.
Adult DoseRegular release: 10-30 mg PO q4-8h, not to exceed 120 mg/d
SR: 60 mg PO bid
Pediatric Dose1-3 months: 0.5-1 mg PO q6-8h
3-6 months: 1-2 mg PO q6-8h
7 months to 1 year: 2-4 mg PO q6-8h
2-6 years: 2.5-7.5 mg PO q4-8h, not to exceed 30 mg/d
6-12 years: 5-10 mg PO q4-6h, not to exceed 60 mg/d
>12 years: Administer as in adults
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity
InteractionsMay decrease hypotensive effects of guanethidine; MAOIs significantly may enhance adrenergic effects
PregnancyC - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
PrecautionsHigh blood pressure or tachycardia; thyroid disorders; diabetes mellitus

Drug NameCodeine
DescriptionFor symptomatic relief of cough. Helpful for pain of intercostal muscle strain associated with cough. Binds to opiate receptors in CNS, causing inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering perception and response to pain.
Adult Dose10-20 mg/dose PO q4-6h prn for cough, not to exceed 120 mg/d
Pediatric Dose1-1.5 mg/kg/d PO divided q4-6h prn
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; children <2 y
InteractionsCNS depressants; TCAs may potentiate codeine effects; phenothiazine may antagonize analgesic effect; dextromethorphan may enhance analgesic effect
PregnancyD - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus
PrecautionsHypersensitivity reactions to other phenanthrene-derivative opioid agonists; respiratory diseases; severe liver and/or renal insufficiency

Drug Category: Vitamin C

These agents may decrease severity and duration (large doses not recommended for children).

Drug NameAscorbic acid (Vita-C)
DescriptionEffect on cold severity and duration is still controversial. Vitamin C comes in various formulations.
Adult DoseDietary supplement: 50-200 mg/d PO
Prevention and treatment of cold: 1-3 g/d PO
Pediatric DoseDietary supplement: 35-100 mg/d PO
ContraindicationsDocumented hypersensitivity; pregnancy, if large doses administered
InteractionsDecreases effects of warfarin and fluphenazine; increases aspirin levels
PregnancyA - Fetal risk not revealed in controlled studies in humans
PrecautionsProlonged high doses may cause renal calculi, especially in patients with diabetes



Further Outpatient Care

  • Advocate supportive measures such as rest, analgesics, and adequate hydration.
  • Instruct per Patient Education.

Deterrence/Prevention

  • Avoid aspirin administration if a child has a viral illness to prevent Reye syndrome (although this is rare).

Prognosis

  • Complete recovery is usually observed within 7 days for adolescents and adults and within 10-14 days for children. Occasionally, a child's cough and congestion linger for 2-3 weeks.

Patient Education

  • Reassure family and patient that frequent colds are common at certain times of the year.
    • Advising parents that 6-12 colds per year can be normal for young children, especially if they attend daycare or preschool, is helpful.
    • Frequent self-limited colds do not indicate a problem with the child's immune system and do not require antibiotic treatment.
  • Because spread of secretions by contact with hands is a major route of transmission, encourage parents and patient to frequently wash their hands.
  • Advise patient to return if fever exceeds 102°F, significant respiratory distress develops, or symptoms do not resolve in 10-14 days.
  • Advise patient that purulent nasal discharge is commonly observed after the first few days of the infection and does not indicate a bacterial infection or the need for antibiotics.
  • Patients with common colds do not need to be excluded from daycare or preschool settings.
  • For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Cold and Flu Center. Also, see eMedicine's patient education article Colds.



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Rhinovirus Infection excerpt

Article Last Updated: Oct 10, 2007