Health Topics for Respiratory Problems

Department of Respiratory Care

Lung Cancer Program

Interstitial Lung Disease -- Department of Internal Medicine

Allergies

Preventing Respiratory Infections

Colds and influenza are probably the most common respiratory infections known to humans. People have been looking for cures for the common cold for over 3,000 years. There are probably as many household treatments for colds and influenza as there are viruses that cause these infections. However, there is no cure for the common cold.

One or several types of over 100 viruses can cause the common cold. The cold viruses usually affect the nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs. These viruses are very contagious. They can be spread by moisture released during sneezing, coughing, or talking. In the case of children, hand to mouth contact during play can spread the virus.

Self-care for the common cold:

• drink lots of fluids, especially water and fruit juice

• use cough syrup or lozenges to ease a sore throat

• use over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen, for headaches or fever and

• use a vaporizer or mentholated ointment to reduce congestion

Influenza is also very contagious. It is transmitted very much like a cold. In addition, the flu can be spread by direct hand contact. Although the flu is usually considered to be a respiratory infection, it can affect the entire body. Symptoms of the flu include fever and chills, fatigue, aching of the head and muscles, loss of appetite, and possibly, nausea, vomiting, and sore throat.

Receiving the influenza vaccine shots every year can reduce the risk and severity of the flu. Flu shots are usually available in the fall of each year. High-risk individuals (such as those with diabetes, heart, kidney, or chronic lung conditions, anemia, altered immune systems, and the elderly) are especially susceptible to the flu. They are encouraged to get a flu shot every year.

Colds and flu are more common during the fall and winter months. In the past, some people believed that cold weather, going outdoors with wet hair, or not being dressed warmly caused these respiratory illnesses. We now know that these illnesses are more likely to occur during these seasons because more people are indoors. This increases the chance of person-to-person spread of a cold or influenza virus.

If you experience frequent respiratory infections, or believe you are in a high-risk group and might need a flu shot, contact your healthcare provider to arrange for an influenza vaccine.

To learn more about the common cold and or influenza, contact your local chapter of the American Lung Association, or call (800) LUNG-USA.

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