Nursing Care Related to the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

2-33

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2-33. ACUTE CORYZA

 

The "common cold" is the term used to refer to afebrile, infectious, acute coryza, which is caused by many different viruses. Colds are highly contagious. Symptoms do not appear until 24-48 hours after exposure to the virus, yet during this time the exposed individual is already contagious.

a. Symptoms may include nasal congestion and discharge, sneezing, sore throat, fever, chills, and malaise. Nasal congestion causes pressure that results in headache. As a cold progresses, a cough may develop. Symptoms last about 1-2 weeks if the infection remains uncomplicated.

 

b. Treatment is symptomatic, involving the use of analgesics, decongestants, and expectorants. Warm salt-water gargles may relieve sore throat pain. Adequate rest, plenty of fluids, and vitamin C are routinely included in the treatment of a cold.

 

 

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