Common cold (viral rhinitis)

J00

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Colds are self-limiting viral conditions that may last up to 14 days. Colds begin to clear within 3 days. Colds present with nasal stuffiness and throat irritation. Malnourished children, the elderly and debilitated patients are at greater risk of developing complications.

Complications

Secondary bacterial infections, including:

• pneumonia secondary to influenza
• otitis media
• sinusitis

GENERAL MEASURES

• Limit strenuous activity.
• Ensure adequate hydration.
• Advise patient to return to clinic if earache, tenderness or pain over sinuses develops or symptoms persist for > 14 days.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Antibiotics are of no value for the treatment of the common cold and influenza.

Infants

• Sodium chloride 0.9%, 1–3 drops, instilled into each nostril as required.

LOEIII [4]

Symptomatic relief of pain and fever with discomfort:

Children

• Paracetamol, oral, 10–15 mg/kg/dose 6 hourly when required. See paediatric dosing tool.

LOEIII [5]

REFERRAL

Severe complications.