Causes of Upper Respiratory Infections

1. Describe causes of Upper respiratory infections and drug therapy 
2. Discuss triggers of asthma and treatment options
3. Discuss corticosteroids 
4. Describe chronic bronchitis and treatment options

 

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in the current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.
  • Each question must be answered individually as in bullet points.
  • Example: Question 1, followed by the answer to question 1; Question 2, followed by the answer to question 2; and so forth. 

Causes of Upper Respiratory Infections and Drug Therapy:

• Causes:
  • Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are commonly caused by viruses, including rhinovirus, influenza virus, adenovirus, coronavirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
  • Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis can also cause URIs, particularly in cases of sinusitis and acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.
  • Other factors contributing to URIs include environmental factors (such as cold weather), allergens, and irritants (e.g., tobacco smoke).
• Drug Therapy:
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics are typically prescribed for bacterial infections, but they are not effective against viral infections. Overprescribing antibiotics can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
  • Antiviral Medications: Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) may be prescribed for certain viral infections like influenza.
  • Symptomatic Relief: Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine), antihistamines (e.g., loratadine), and cough suppressants (e.g., dextromethorphan) can help alleviate symptoms.
  • Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve pain associated with URIs.
  • Inhaled Corticosteroids: In cases of severe inflammation or asthma exacerbation, inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide) may be used to reduce airway inflammation.

Triggers of Asthma and Treatment Options:

• Triggers:
  • Allergens: Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold can trigger asthma symptoms.
  • Air Pollution: Exposure to air pollutants like smoke, smog, and particulate matter can exacerbate asthma.
  • Respiratory Infections: Viral respiratory infections can trigger asthma exacerbations.
  • Exercise: Physical activity can induce asthma symptoms in some individuals, known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
  • Stress and Emotions: Emotional stress and strong emotions can trigger asthma symptoms in some people.
  • Weather Changes: Cold air, changes in temperature, and humidity can trigger asthma attacks in susceptible individuals.
• Treatment Options:
  • Bronchodilators: Short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol) provide quick relief by relaxing the muscles around the airways during an asthma attack.
  • Inhaled Corticosteroids: These are the most effective long-term control medications for asthma, reducing inflammation in the airways and preventing symptoms.
  • Leukotriene Modifiers: Drugs like montelukast block the action of leukotrienes, substances in the body that contribute to inflammation and constriction of airways.
  • Immunotherapy: Allergy shots may be recommended for individuals whose asthma is triggered by allergens.
  • Biologic Therapies: Monoclonal antibodies targeting specific immune pathways (e.g., omalizumab, mepolizumab) may be prescribed for severe asthma not controlled by other medications.

Corticosteroids:

• Definition: Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands.
• Mechanism of Action: Corticosteroids exert their effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, leading to a variety of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. They inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, suppress immune responses, and reduce edema and mucus production.
• Uses:
  • Corticosteroids are used to treat a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, and skin disorders.
  • Inhaled corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatment for long-term control of symptoms and prevention of exacerbations.
  • Systemic corticosteroids may be used for short-term management of acute exacerbations of asthma or COPD.
• Side Effects:
  • Prolonged use of systemic corticosteroids can lead to various adverse effects, including osteoporosis, weight gain, hypertension, diabetes, cataracts, mood changes, and immunosuppression.
  • Inhaled corticosteroids are associated with fewer systemic side effects, but local side effects such as oral thrush and dysphonia can occur with improper use.

Chronic Bronchitis and Treatment Options:

• Definition: Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by persistent inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, leading to cough and excessive mucus production.
• Causes:
  • Chronic bronchitis is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and occupational dust or chemicals.
  • Infections, genetic factors, and recurrent respiratory illnesses can also contribute to the development of chronic bronchitis.
• Treatment Options:
  • Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is the most important intervention in managing chronic bronchitis and slowing disease progression.
  • Bronchodilators: Long-acting bronchodilators (e.g., tiotropium, salmeterol) help relax the muscles around the airways, improving airflow and reducing symptoms.
  • Inhaled Corticosteroids: Inhaled corticosteroids may be prescribed for patients with frequent exacerbations or significant airway inflammation.
  • Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation programs incorporating exercise training, education, and support can improve symptoms, exercise tolerance, and quality of life.
  • Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen therapy may be necessary for patients with severe chronic bronchitis and low blood oxygen levels.
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics are reserved for acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by bacterial infections.
  • Mucolytics: Drugs like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may be used to help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.