What are the common causes of stuffy nose fever in children. How can parents recognize symptoms of nasal congestion in infants and children. What home remedies can help alleviate nasal congestion in babies and young kids. When should parents seek medical advice for a child’s stuffy nose and fever.

Understanding Nasal Congestion in Infants and Children

Nasal congestion is a common occurrence in babies and children, often causing discomfort but rarely indicating a serious condition. This stuffy nose can be attributed to various factors, including the common cold, influenza, allergies, or sinus infections. It’s particularly challenging for infants under two months old, as they primarily breathe through their noses and haven’t yet developed the ability to breathe through their mouths effectively.

Common Symptoms of Nasal Congestion

• Runny nose
• Noisy breathing
• Snoring
• Sneezing
• Coughing

In addition to these symptoms, children may also experience fever if they have an upper respiratory infection. Parents should be aware that nasal congestion can significantly impact a baby’s comfort, potentially leading to fussiness, feeding difficulties, and sleep disturbances.

Effective Home Care Strategies for Nasal Congestion

While nasal congestion can be distressing for both children and parents, there are several home care techniques that can provide relief:

1. Saline Nasal Spray

How can saline nasal spray help with nasal congestion. Saline nasal spray, which is essentially salt water in a spray bottle, can be highly effective in loosening mucus. Available over-the-counter, it’s safe to use 1-2 sprays in each nostril. This simple solution can provide significant relief, especially when used in conjunction with other methods.

2. Nasal Aspiration for Infants

For babies under 6 months, a rubber bulb syringe (nasal aspirator) can be used following the saline spray application. To use effectively, sit your baby upright, squeeze the bulb before inserting it gently into the nostril, then slowly release to create suction. Repeat for the other nostril, and consider doing this before each feeding for optimal comfort.

3. Humidification

How does increased humidity help with nasal congestion. Increasing humidity can significantly alleviate nasal congestion. Use a cool mist vaporizer near your child’s sleeping area, or create a steamy environment by running a hot shower in a closed bathroom and sitting with your child for 10-15 minutes.

4. Hydration

Proper hydration is crucial in managing nasal congestion. For infants, this means maintaining regular breastfeeding or bottle-feeding schedules. Older children should be encouraged to drink water or other fluids. Adequate hydration helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel.

Precautions and Considerations in Treating Nasal Congestion

While treating nasal congestion at home, there are important precautions to keep in mind:

• Avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider, especially for children under 2 years old.
• Ensure a smoke-free environment, as cigarette smoke can exacerbate congestion and coughing.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Nasal Congestion

While most cases of nasal congestion can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Parents should contact their child’s healthcare provider if:

• The child develops a fever
• Symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear
• Nasal discharge persists for more than 10-14 days
• The child exhibits rapid breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute for newborns up to 6 weeks, or more than 45 breaths per minute for children 6 weeks to 2 years old)
• There’s a noticeable decrease in eating, drinking, or urination
• The child frequently pulls at or touches their ear, indicating possible pain
• The child appears unusually tired or behaves abnormally

Understanding Fever in Children with Nasal Congestion

Fever often accompanies nasal congestion, especially in cases of upper respiratory infections. It’s important for parents to monitor their child’s temperature accurately and know when fever becomes a concern.

How to Measure a Child’s Temperature

What’s the most accurate way to measure a child’s temperature. Digital thermometers are the recommended tool for checking a child’s temperature. The method of measurement can vary based on the child’s age:

• For children under 3 years: Rectal temperature measurement is most accurate
• For children 3 to 5 years: Rectal, ear, or axillary (armpit) methods can be used
• For children 5 years and older: Oral temperature measurement is suitable

When Fever Becomes a Concern

At what point should parents be concerned about their child’s fever. The following temperature readings warrant medical attention:

• Rectal temperature of 100.4째F (38째C) or higher in a baby younger than 3 months
• Temperature of 104째F (40째C) or higher in a child of any age
• Fever lasting more than 24 hours in a child younger than 2 years
• Fever persisting for more than 3 days in a child 2 years or older

Potential Complications of Untreated Nasal Congestion

While nasal congestion is usually harmless, if left untreated, it can sometimes lead to more serious conditions. Understanding these potential complications can help parents recognize when professional medical intervention might be necessary.

Ear Infections

How can nasal congestion lead to ear infections. Prolonged nasal congestion can cause fluid buildup in the middle ear, potentially leading to ear infections. This is particularly common in young children due to the shape and size of their Eustachian tubes. Signs of an ear infection may include ear pain, tugging at the ears, irritability, and in some cases, fever.

Sinus Infections

When nasal congestion persists, it can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, potentially resulting in a sinus infection (sinusitis). Symptoms of sinusitis may include facial pain or pressure, thick yellow or green nasal discharge, and a reduced sense of smell.

Sleep Disturbances

Nasal congestion can significantly impact a child’s sleep quality. Difficulty breathing through the nose can lead to mouth breathing, snoring, and frequent night wakings. Over time, this can affect a child’s daytime behavior, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Nasal Congestion

While it’s not always possible to prevent nasal congestion, especially in young children, there are several measures parents can take to reduce its frequency and severity:

1. Maintain Good Hygiene

How can good hygiene habits help prevent nasal congestion. Encouraging regular hand washing, especially before meals and after playing outside, can significantly reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections. Teach children to avoid touching their face, particularly their nose, mouth, and eyes, with unwashed hands.

2. Allergen Control

For children prone to allergies, minimizing exposure to common allergens can help prevent nasal congestion. This may include:

• Using air purifiers in the home
• Regularly washing bedding in hot water
• Keeping windows closed during high pollen days
• Vacuuming frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum

3. Balanced Diet and Hydration

A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, can help boost the immune system. Ensuring adequate hydration is also crucial for maintaining healthy mucus membranes in the nasal passages.

4. Regular Exercise

Encouraging regular physical activity can help improve overall health and boost the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency of respiratory infections.

The Role of Immunizations in Preventing Respiratory Infections

How do immunizations contribute to preventing nasal congestion and related illnesses. While vaccines don’t directly prevent nasal congestion, they play a crucial role in protecting against many respiratory infections that can cause it. Keeping children up-to-date with their immunizations can significantly reduce their risk of contracting illnesses such as influenza, pneumococcal disease, and other respiratory infections that often lead to nasal congestion.

Key Vaccinations for Respiratory Health

• Annual flu vaccine
• Pneumococcal vaccine
• DTaP vaccine (which includes protection against pertussis or whooping cough)

Parents should consult with their pediatrician to ensure their child’s vaccination schedule is current and appropriate for their age and health status.

Understanding the Link Between Nasal Congestion and Other Respiratory Conditions

While nasal congestion is often a standalone symptom, it can sometimes be associated with or indicative of other respiratory conditions. Being aware of these connections can help parents better understand their child’s health and know when to seek further medical evaluation.

Asthma and Nasal Congestion

How are asthma and nasal congestion related. Children with asthma often experience nasal congestion as part of their overall respiratory symptoms. In fact, many children with asthma also have allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, which can cause chronic nasal congestion. Managing nasal symptoms effectively can help improve overall asthma control.

Adenoid Hypertrophy

Enlarged adenoids, a condition known as adenoid hypertrophy, can cause chronic nasal congestion in children. This condition may also lead to other symptoms such as mouth breathing, snoring, and in some cases, sleep apnea. If nasal congestion persists despite home treatments, it may be worth discussing the possibility of adenoid issues with a pediatrician.

Nasal Polyps

Although rare in children, nasal polyps can cause persistent nasal congestion. These soft, painless, noncancerous growths can block nasal passages and lead to breathing difficulties. Children with conditions like cystic fibrosis or allergic rhinitis may be more prone to developing nasal polyps.

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Nasal Congestion in Children

Environmental factors play a significant role in the frequency and severity of nasal congestion in children. Understanding these factors can help parents create a healthier home environment and potentially reduce the occurrence of nasal congestion.

Air Quality

How does air quality affect nasal congestion in children. Poor air quality, both indoors and outdoors, can irritate the nasal passages and exacerbate congestion. Common indoor air pollutants include:

• Dust
• Pet dander
• Mold spores
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products and furniture

Outdoor air pollution, such as smog and particulate matter, can also trigger nasal congestion, especially in children with allergies or asthma.

Humidity Levels

Both excessively dry and overly humid environments can contribute to nasal congestion. Dry air can irritate the nasal passages, while high humidity can promote the growth of mold and dust mites, common allergens that can cause nasal symptoms.

Temperature Fluctuations

Sudden changes in temperature, such as moving from a warm house to cold outdoors, can sometimes trigger nasal congestion. This is due to the nasal passages’ attempt to warm and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.

Long-term Management of Recurrent Nasal Congestion in Children

For children who experience frequent bouts of nasal congestion, developing a long-term management strategy can be beneficial. This approach often involves a combination of preventive measures, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medical interventions.

Allergy Management

If allergies are a significant contributor to recurrent nasal congestion, consider the following strategies:

• Allergy testing to identify specific triggers
• Implementing allergen avoidance measures
• Discussing potential allergy medications or immunotherapy with a pediatrician or allergist

Regular Check-ups

Scheduled visits with a pediatrician can help monitor the child’s overall respiratory health and catch any developing issues early. These check-ups also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns and adjust management strategies as needed.

Nasal Hygiene Routine

Establishing a regular nasal hygiene routine can help manage chronic nasal congestion. This might include:

• Daily use of saline nasal rinses
• Teaching older children proper nose-blowing techniques
• Using a humidifier in the child’s room during dry seasons

Dietary Considerations

Some dietary factors may influence nasal congestion. Consider the following:

• Limiting dairy intake if it seems to increase mucus production
• Ensuring adequate hydration
• Incorporating foods rich in vitamin C and other immune-boosting nutrients

By implementing these strategies and working closely with healthcare providers, parents can help manage their child’s nasal congestion effectively, improving their overall quality of life and reducing the frequency of acute episodes.

Nasal Congestion (Infant/Child)

Nasal congestion is very common in babies and children. It usually isn’t serious. Nasal congestion can be caused by a cold, the flu, allergies, or a sinus infection.

Babies younger than 2 months old breathe mostly through their nose. They aren’t very good at breathing through their mouth yet. They don’t know how to sniff or blow their nose. When your baby’s nose is stuffy, they will act uncomfortable. Your baby may be fussy and have trouble feeding and sleeping.

Symptoms of nasal congestion include:

• Runny nose

• Noisy breathing

• Snoring

• Sneezing

• Coughing

Your baby or child may also have a fever if they have an upper respiratory infection.

Simple nasal congestion can be treated with the measures listed below. In some cases, nasal congestion can be a symptom of a more serious illness. Be alert for the warnings listed below.

Home care

Follow these guidelines when caring for your baby’s or child’s nasal congestion at home:

• Use saline nose spray to loosen mucus. Saline spray is salt water in a spray bottle. It’s available without a prescription. Use 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril.

  
  

  • For babies, use a rubber bulb syringe (nasal aspirator) to pull out the mucus after using the saline spray. This may work best when your baby is less than 6 months old. Sit your baby upright. (Don’t use the bulb syringe with the child on their back.) Squeeze the bulb before putting it in your baby’s nose. Gently put the tip into your baby’s nostril, and slowly let go of the bulb to create suction. Do the same for the other nostril. Clear your baby’s nose before each feeding.

• Use a cool mist vaporizer near your baby’s crib or in your child’s room. You can also run a hot shower with the doors and windows of the bathroom closed. Sit in the bathroom with your baby or child on your lap for 10 or 15 minutes.

• Keep your baby or child hydrated. For younger babies this means breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Children should drink water or other fluids. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus.

• Don’t give over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to your baby or child unless their healthcare provider has specifically told you to do so. OTC cough and cold medicines have not been proved to work any better than a placebo (sweet syrup with no medicine in it). And they can cause serious side effects, especially in children younger than 2 years of age.

• Don’t smoke around your baby or child and don’t allow other people to do so. This includes smoking in your home and car. Cigarette smoke can make the congestion and cough worse.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s healthcare provider, or as directed.

When to get medical advice

Call your child’s provider right away if any of these occur:

• Fever (see Fever and children, below)

• Symptoms get worse or new symptoms develop

• Nasal discharge persists for more than 10 to 14 days

• Fast breathing. In a newborn up to 6 weeks old: more than 60 breaths per minute. In a child 6 weeks to 2 years old: more than 45 breaths per minute.

• Your baby or child is eating or drinking less or seems to be having trouble with feedings

• Your baby or child is peeing less than normal.

• Your baby or child pulls at or touches their ear often, or seems to be in pain 

• Your baby or child is not acting normal or appears very tired

Fever and children

Use a digital thermometer to check your child’s temperature. Don’t use a mercury thermometer. There are different kinds and uses of digital thermometers. They include:

• 
  Rectal. For children younger than 3 years, a rectal temperature is the most accurate.

• 
  Forehead (temporal). This works for children age 3 months and older. If a child under 3 months old has signs of illness, this can be used for a first pass. The provider may want to confirm with a rectal temperature.

• 
  Ear (tympanic). Ear temperatures are accurate after 6 months of age, but not before.

• 
  Armpit (axillary). This is the least reliable but may be used for a first pass to check a child of any age with signs of illness. The provider may want to confirm with a rectal temperature.

• 
  Mouth (oral). Don’t use a thermometer in your child’s mouth until they are at least 4 years old.

Use the rectal thermometer with care. Follow the product maker’s directions for correct use. Insert it gently. Label it and make sure it’s not used in the mouth. It may pass on germs from the stool. If you don’t feel OK using a rectal thermometer, ask the healthcare provider what type to use instead. When you talk with any healthcare provider about your child’s fever, tell them which type you used.

Below are guidelines to know if your young child has a fever. Your child’s healthcare provider may give you different numbers for your child. Follow your provider’s specific instructions.

Fever readings for a baby under 3 months old:

Fever readings for a child age 3 months to 36 months (3 years):

• Rectal, forehead, or ear: 102°F (38. 9°C) or higher

• Armpit: 101°F (38.3°C) or higher

Call the healthcare provider in these cases:

• Repeated temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher in a child of any age

• Fever of 100.4° F (38° C) or higher in baby younger than 3 months

• Fever that lasts more than 24 hours in a child under age 2

• Fever that lasts for 3 days in a child age 2 or older

© 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

Was this helpful?

Yes
No

Tell us more.

Check all that apply.

 
Wrong topic—not what I was looking for.

 
It was hard to understand.

 
It didn’t answer any of my questions.

 
I still don’t know what to do next.

 
Other.

NEXT ▶

Last question: How confident are you filling out medical forms by yourself?

Not at all
A little
Somewhat
Quite a bit
Extremely

Thank You!

Have I got Covid, a bad cold or something else?

• Published

  000Z”>5 April 2022

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption,

The symptoms of Covid and other respiratory infections are now very similar

As the latest version of the Omicron variant continues to spread quickly, the official list of Covid symptoms has been expanded in England – but not yet in the rest of the UK.

The updated guidance now lists nine extra symptoms, including a sore throat, muscle pains and diarrhoea, but many of these are similar to cold and flu symptoms.

So how can you tell if you’ve got Covid, a bad cold or something else?

What are the symptoms to look out for?

The new list of Covid symptoms has been expanded from the original three:

• a new, continuous cough
• a fever or high temperature
• loss of or change to smell or taste

It now includes nine other symptoms which are common signs of other respiratory infections too:

• shortness of breath
• feeling tired or exhausted, lack of energy
• muscle aches or pains
• headache that lasts longer than usual
• blocked or runny nose
• sore throat, stuffy or runny nose
• loss of appetite
• diarrhoea
• feeling sick or being sick

It’s not possible to tell if you have Covid-19, flu or another respiratory infection based on symptoms alone, official advice says.

But spotting these symptoms can help to reduce the spread to other more vulnerable people.

If you have any of these symptoms plus a high temperature or you don’t feel well enough to go to work or school, you’re advised to stay at home.

• Nine new Covid symptoms added to official list

Is change or loss of taste and smell still important?

This was one of the three key Covid symptoms identified during the first two years of the pandemic but it appears to be much less common with Omicron infections.

The most common five symptoms experienced by people with positive Covid tests recently are runny nose (83%), fatigue (71%), sore throat (69%), headache (69%) and sneezing (68%), according to the ZOE Covid symptom app.

• Coronavirus loss of smell: Meat tastes like petrol

How can I tell if I’ve got a fever or high temperature?

A high temperature is 37.8C or above, and can happen when the body is fighting off any infection – not just coronavirus.

If you don’t have a thermometer, check if you – or the person you’re worried about – feel hot to the touch on the chest or back.

A high temperature is unlikely with a cold.

How do I know when to stay at home?

If you have any of these symptoms plus a high temperature or you don’t feel well enough to carry out normal activities, you’re advised to stay at home in England.

You should avoid contact with other people, in particular those who are at high risk of becoming seriously unwell if they get Covid.

People with symptoms are no longer advised to test for Covid in England, but if you do have a positive result, you should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days after the day you took your test.

Many people will no longer be infectious after five days but some may still be able to pass on the virus for up to 10 days.

People with symptoms are still advised to take a PCR test in Scotland and Northern Ireland or a lateral flow test (LFT) in Wales. Anyone who tests positive in the three nations is asked to isolate.

When testing ends in Scotland, people who feel unwell will be advised to stay at home until they feel better.

• What is the Covid isolation advice across the UK?
• Who can still get free Covid tests?
• Why are so many people catching Covid again?

How can I reduce spread in my household?

The advice is to try to keep your distance from people you live with, particularly those whose immune system is weaker than normal.

You can also open windows in rooms for 10 minutes after someone with symptoms has left.

Cleaning frequently touched surfaces such as door handles and remote controls can protect people in your house from Covid and other viruses.

What if I have to leave home?

If you can’t stay at home while you feel unwell, you can reduce the chances of passing on the infection you have by:

• wearing a well-fitting face mask
• avoiding crowded places such as public transport or large indoor gatherings
• taking exercise outdoors
• covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and washing your hands frequently

Who is at high risk from Covid?

For most people who’ve been vaccinated – and children, even if they haven’t had a jab – Covid infections are usually mild, and typically last for up to a week.

But some groups are still at higher risk and need protecting from Covid and other respiratory infections, including:

• older people
• those who are pregnant
• those who are unvaccinated
• people of any age whose immune system means they are at higher risk of serious illness
• people of any age with certain long-term conditions

Some very young children who were born prematurely or who have heart conditions are also at risk from RSV, another respiratory virus.

What if I’m worried about my symptoms?

Most people can be treated for Covid at home, as with any other mild respiratory illness. You should get plenty of rest and drink water to keep hydrated.

You can take paracetamol to relieve headaches and muscle aches or pains, but antibiotics won’t work against viral infections like Covid.

If you’re having trouble breathing, contact your doctor, or use the NHS 111 coronavirus service online.

If you’re very worried about sudden shortness of breath, call 999.

The NHS also advises:

• call 111 if you’re worried about a baby or child under five
• if your child seems very unwell, is getting worse or you think there’s something seriously wrong, call 999
• don’t delay getting help if you’re worried, trust your instincts

• BOOSTER: Who can get the fourth jab and how do you book it?
• TESTS: Who can still get free tests?
• ISOLATION: What is the Covid isolation advice now?
• MANAGING COVID: How to look after yourself at home
• COVID CASES: How many cases are there in my area?
• LONG COVID: What is it and what are the symptoms?
• TREATMENT: What progress is being made?

• Omicron variant
• Flu

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Runny nose: symptoms, causes and treatment

What is a runny nose?

Everyone picks it up, but no one needs it

Runny nose – rhinitis

An intruder that always comes back

Rhinitis is the medical term for a runny nose. “IT” at the end indicates the inflammatory nature of the disease. Usually rhinitis is accompanied by increased secretion of nasal discharge. To everything else, an unpleasant sneezing is added. According to statistics, at least once in a lifetime, every person caught a runny nose.

Top 5 common cold symptoms

Who doesn’t know them?

Stuffy, mucus-filled nose and restriction of nasal breathing

Altered voice

Painful nose when touched

Sneeze attacks

Disturbance of taste and smell

Ours advice:

If you have a runny nose, fever and severe headache (or facial pain), see a doctor. The same should be done if the runny nose does not disappear within a week, despite suitable treatment.

Causes of the common cold

All problems are caused by viruses

In most cases, the cause of the common cold is the so-called rhinoviruses. When it gets cold and damp outside, rhinoviruses come into play. Why? Because there are ideal conditions under which rhinoviruses can spread in the nose. Due to low temperatures, the blood circulation of the nasal mucosa becomes weaker, and resistance to pathogens decreases accordingly. Having penetrated into the nose, rhinoviruses begin to multiply rapidly.

The most common causative agent of the common cold

Rhinoviruses belong to the group of picornaviruses (pico: small in Italian). Its diameter is from 24 to 30 nm, 1 nm (nanometer) is 1 billionth of a meter. Almost 60 years have passed since its discovery, but to date, protection against rhinoviruses has not been found. Currently, more than 100 types of rhinoviruses are known. They are responsible for more than half of all colds.

Nasal mucosa

Irritated easily and quickly

Due to the increased excretion of nasal secretions and constant cleaning of the nose, the mucous membrane dries out, becoming brittle and more susceptible to damage. The impact caused by blowing your nose causes many small wounds. The nose requires careful care and effective wound healing. That is why the plus-effect of Nazik ^® has proven its superiority. With the original combination of the active ingredients xylometazoline and dexpanthenol, which was patented by Klosterfrau in 1995, and which helps to eliminate nasal congestion and heal sensitive and irritated nasal mucosa by sneezing, the runny nose disappears faster.

From rhinovirus to infection

How the common cold is spread

Rhinoviruses are truly soaring artists. Viruses are transmitted from one person to another by airborne droplets – through tiny droplets that fly through the air when talking, coughing or sneezing. Spread is also possible by contact – the so-called infection brought by rubbing. In other words, the common cold can be contracted through doorknobs, supermarket carts, or elevator buttons touched by a person with a cold. On smooth surfaces, viruses can survive for a long time without losing their infectivity.

What happens when viruses enter the nose? The body immediately notices rhinoviruses and turns on the protective mode. The blood circulation of the mucous membranes is activated, the nasal mucosa swells. In order to remove pathogens from the body as soon as possible, more and more mucus is secreted from the nose. The consequences of such a defense strategy are well-known symptoms, such as a runny nose and nasal congestion. If the mucus becomes more viscous, it no longer flows out of the nose properly, causing it to accumulate and restrict nasal breathing.

Did you know that…?

When you sneeze, millions of highly infectious viral particles fly through the air at speeds of up to 160 km/h. The speed of some particles reaches the speed of small passenger cars.

Runny nose treatment

Original Nazik ^® Nasic Spray with enhanced action: so you can get rid of a runny nose faster!

Nazik ^® is a decongestant nasal spray that not only quickly relieves nasal congestion, but also provides additional care for nasal mucosa damaged by a runny nose. Thus, you can get rid of a runny nose faster!

For Nazik Nasal Spray ^® we have created a special combination of active ingredients: point of the nasal cavity, moisturizes and promotes its regeneration. In combination with xylometazoline, the active ingredients become a powerful duet for the common cold.

All about dexpanthenol

Xylometazoline

Quickly relieves nasal congestion

A classic in nasal sprays: xylometazoline has a very powerful decongestant effect – and you can breathe freely again! The symptoms of rhinitis are rapidly reduced, and in combination with dexpanthenol, the nasal mucosa recovers much faster.

All about xylometazoline

• Nasik ^® for children nasal spray

  nasal spray for sensitive baby nose
  Nazik ^® for children, which contains a special combination of active ingredients: xylometazoline and dexpanthenol in a dosage adapted for children

  View products

  Instructions for use

• Nazik ^® nasal spray

  Nasal spray for quick relief of a runny nose
  Nazik ^® , which contains a special combination of active ingredients: xylometazoline and dexpanthenol

  View products

  Instructions for use

Did you know that. ..?

Provitamins are the precursors of vitamins. The provitamin dexpanthenol is converted in the body to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Pantothenic acid is a component of the so-called coenzyme A, which is involved in numerous metabolic processes, such as protein and lipid synthesis, in which subcutaneous fat plays an important protective role.

Diseases of the nose and throat – how and with what to treat?

Askova Lyudmila Nikolaevna, otorhinolaryngologist at the Calling Clinic, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor.

1. Sinusitis.

Symptoms. How to distinguish from a simple runny nose? What is dangerous? What will happen if not treated? How to treat? Prevention. Causes of occurrence.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinus, which communicates with the nasal cavity. Sinusitis can be acute or chronic.

Acute sinusitis most often develops as a complication of acute rhinitis (runny nose), after infectious diseases, as well as due to inflammatory diseases of the teeth (odontogenic sinusitis). Hypothermia against the background of a decrease in the body’s defenses can serve as a provoking factor. Sinusitis differs from rhinitis (runny nose): the duration of the disease – a runny nose lasts 6-8 days, and sinusitis – up to 1 month, the presence of purulent discharge, pain in the area of ​​the affected sinus.

Chronic sinusitis is usually a consequence of the transition of acute inflammation to a chronic form. This can be facilitated by thickening of the nasal mucosa, thickening of the turbinates, curvature of the nasal septum, closing or narrowing the outlet of the maxillary sinuses, insufficient treatment of acute sinusitis.

Acute sinusitis is characterized by symptoms of general intoxication: chills, fever, poor general health, headache of varying intensity. In addition to the general, local symptoms are observed: pain in the cheek area. By nature, the pain is intense and constant, accompanied by a feeling of fullness, aggravated by tilting the head, coughing and sneezing. Sometimes there is photophobia and lacrimation. The nose is stuffed up, there is an abundant discharge of mucous (catarrhal sinusitis), mucopurulent, purulent nature (purulent sinusitis). On the side of the affected sinus, the sense of smell may decrease. When the periosteum is involved in the process, swelling of the cheek and swelling of the lower eyelid are noted.

Chronic sinusitis is characterized by general weakness, malaise, fatigue, headache (more often in the evening), nasal congestion, discharge. The sense of smell may decrease. Vasomotor and allergic sinusitis is characterized by an undulating course with periodic remissions. The clinical picture of exacerbation is characterized by the same symptoms as in acute sinusitis.

Treatment is prescribed by an otorhinolaryngologist. As a rule, treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis and consists of a course of pharmacotherapy: antibiotics, vasoconstrictor drugs, decongestants are prescribed. At the final stage, the doctor may prescribe physiotherapy procedures.

In the case of odontogenic sinusitis, treatment by a dentist is also required.

In severe cases and the presence of complications, hospitalization is indicated.

Treatment of sinusitis is mandatory, because. this disease can cause serious intracranial, intraorbital and broncho-pulmonary complications: swelling of the meninges, meningitis, swelling of the tissue of the eye sockets and eyelids, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other complications.

2. Tonsillitis

Symptoms. How to treat? Complications. Prevention.

Tonsillitis is a disease that is characterized by inflammation of one or more lymphoid formations of the pharyngeal ring (usually palatine tonsils) and is one of the most common infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Tonsillitis is acute and chronic. Acute tonsillitis is known as angina. The most significant bacterial causative agent of acute tonsillitis is group A hemolytic streptococcus. Less commonly, acute tonsillitis is caused by other streptococci, viruses, pneumococci, fungi, mycoplasmas, and chlamydia.

The pathogen is transmitted by airborne droplets. Sources of infection are sick and less often asymptomatic carriers. The greatest incidence is noted in the winter-spring period.

The incubation period for acute tonsillitis ranges from several hours to 2-4 days. This disease is characterized by an acute onset with fever up to 37.5 – 39 ° C, chills or chills, headache, general malaise, sore throat, aggravated by swallowing; frequent pain in the muscles and joints, swollen lymph nodes. Children may have nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The duration of the disease period (without treatment) is 5-7 days. In the future, in the absence of complications, the main clinical manifestations of the disease (fever, symptoms of intoxication, inflammatory changes in the tonsils) quickly disappear, the blood picture normalizes. The enlargement of the lymph nodes can last up to 10-12 days.

Under the influence of various factors (a weakened body, a highly pathogenic pathogen, improper treatment, lack of treatment, chronic diseases), acute tonsillitis can become chronic. Chronic tonsillitis is characterized by periodic exacerbations (after hypothermia, emotional stress, and other factors). Chronic tonsillitis is a focus of infection in the body. It weakens the body and can spread the infection to other organs (most often the kidneys, heart, joints).

The otorhinolaryngologist may prescribe conservative or surgical treatment.

Conservative method – restoring the health of the tonsils with the help of washing, the use of antibiotics, physiotherapy.

Surgical method – partial removal of damaged tissues by physical exposure to radio waves, laser, cryo exposure or complete removal of the tonsils surgically.

3. Laryngitis, pharyngitis

Laryngitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx. Mass outbreaks are observed during epidemics of viral infections – in late autumn, winter, early spring. Typical symptoms of laryngitis are hoarseness, soreness in the throat, dry cough. This disease is most severe in children of the first years of life. Symptoms of laryngitis in children: barking cough, shortness of breath.

Treatment of laryngitis is associated with the elimination of the causes that cause the disease. For complete rest of the larynx for 5-7 days, the patient is advised not to talk. With laryngitis, you can not smoke, drink alcohol. It is also necessary to exclude spicy seasonings, spices. Warm drinks (milk), gargling with chamomile or sage decoctions, warm alkaline inhalations, antibiotic aerosol inhalations, heat on the neck, hot foot baths, cough medicines are useful.

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx. Pharyngitis is one of the manifestations of SARS, that is, it has a viral origin. Sometimes pharyngitis can also be caused by bacteria – most often streptococcus.

Manifestation of pharyngitis – sore throat, sore throat (constant, not only when swallowing and when swallowing saliva), cough. Depending on which pathogen caused pharyngitis (virus or bacterium), treatment is also prescribed, since bacterial inflammation must be treated with antibiotics that the doctor selects, and viral inflammation is treated with antiviral drugs.

Chronic pharyngitis is catarrhal, hypertrophic, atrophic. Causes of occurrence: frequent inflammation of the throat and nose, metabolic disorders, diabetes, diseases of the intestines, stomach, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys, harmful factors in the form of dry air, dust, chemicals, smoke, alcohol, fungal origin, etc. .

Treatment of pharyngitis

The treatment regimen for pharyngitis is determined by an otorhinolaryngologist based on the diagnosis. Treatment of pharyngitis depends on the form of pharyngitis (acute or chronic). It may include a course of antibiotics, inhalations, physiotherapeutic procedures, lubrication of the mucous membrane with drugs, etc.