Common Cold and Flu Overview
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Questions and Answers

What type of infection is the common cold?

  • Fungal infection
  • Bacterial infection
  • Chronic respiratory infection
  • Self-limiting viral infection (correct)
  • Where does the common cold occur in the body?

  • Lower respiratory tract
  • Digestive system
  • Upper respiratory tract (correct)
  • Central nervous system
  • Is the common cold considered a chronic condition?

  • Yes, it causes long-term symptoms
  • Yes, it lasts for an extended time
  • No, it is self-limiting (correct)
  • No, it is an acute bacterial infection
  • Which of the following best describes the nature of the common cold?

    <p>Self-limiting condition (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of the common cold?

    <p>Virus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many colds do children contract on average per year?

    <p>Five to six colds (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum number of colds a child can have in a year?

    <p>Twelve colds (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Compared to adults, how much more frequently do children contract colds?

    <p>More than twice as frequently (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of headache may indicate sinusitis?

    <p>Persistent or worsening frontal headache (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many colds do adults typically contract per year?

    <p>Two to four colds (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom might require a referral for further investigations?

    <p>Worsening frontal headache (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What age group experiences more colds annually, children or adults?

    <p>Children experience more (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which area is most associated with headaches that may indicate sinusitis?

    <p>Above or below the eyes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of headaches, what should be suspected if symptoms persist?

    <p>Sinusitis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is least likely to require further investigation?

    <p>Mild headache after a long day (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition may indicate a compromised immune system?

    <p>Productive cough with fever (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications is mentioned in relation to a compromised immune system?

    <p>Corticosteroids (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential symptom that could lead to a referral for someone with a compromised immune system?

    <p>Producing a cough while having a fever (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is another medication that may be linked to a compromised immune system?

    <p>Ciclosporin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition is likely to require a referral in a patient with a compromised immune system?

    <p>Persisting fever and cough (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you avoid doing after being in physical contact with someone who has a cold?

    <p>Touching your nose or eyes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When is it essential to wash your hands thoroughly?

    <p>After blowing your nose (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action for used paper tissues?

    <p>Throw them away after use (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions helps in preventing infection transmission?

    <p>Washing hands regularly (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of washing hands after contact with someone who has a cold?

    <p>To prevent the spread of infection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions should be avoided by individuals dealing with certain health issues?

    <p>Diabetes mellitus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these health conditions is not advised to be dealt with alongside certain other health issues?

    <p>Ischemic heart disease (A), Hyperthyroidism (B), Hypertension (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the conditions individuals are advised to steer clear of due to potential health risks?

    <p>Diabetes mellitus (A), Hypertension (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which health issue is explicitly mentioned as a condition individuals should avoid?

    <p>Ischemic heart disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions is related to cardiovascular issues that should be avoided?

    <p>Diabetes mellitus (C), Hyperthyroidism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should tablets for menstrual pain be taken for maximum effectiveness?

    <p>Regularly for 2–3 days during each period (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible reason for the symptoms experienced during premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

    <p>Sensitivity to progesterone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is commonly associated with premenstrual syndrome?

    <p>Bloating and weight gain (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a consequence of not finding relief from one nonprescription NSAID for dysmenorrhea?

    <p>Trying another nonprescription NSAID is advisable (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When do symptoms of premenstrual syndrome generally improve?

    <p>Immediately upon menstruation onset (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following mental symptoms is often reported by those with PMS?

    <p>Difficulty concentrating (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which vitamin deficiency may contribute to depressive symptoms in women with PMS?

    <p>Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most likely cause of vaginal discharge in community pharmacy settings?

    <p>Bacterial vaginosis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between PMS and ovulation?

    <p>PMS does not occur before puberty (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Women under what age should be referred when complaining of symptoms of vaginal thrush?

    <p>Under 16 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What discharge characteristic indicates a potential referral for bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis?

    <p>Strong odour and not white or curd-like (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is most prominent in vaginal thrush compared to other conditions?

    <p>Itching (pruritus) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What background information may be a reason for referral regarding a woman's history with vaginal thrush?

    <p>First occurrence of symptoms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition may indicate recurrent attacks of vaginal thrush needing referral?

    <p>More than two episodes in six months (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor significantly increases the likelihood of vaginal candidiasis during pregnancy?

    <p>Hormonal changes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a misleading cause of vaginal pruritus that may appear similar to thrush symptoms?

    <p>Sensitivity reactions from products (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which agent is commonly found in OTC treatments for alkalinizing purposes?

    <p>Sodium Bicarbonate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended action to improve the taste of potassium citrate for patients?

    <p>Dilute it with water (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group of patients should avoid potassium citrate due to the risk of hyperkalemia?

    <p>Patients taking ACE inhibitors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical age range for the peak incidence of primary dysmenorrhea?

    <p>17 to 25 years (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which treatment option is recommended for pain relief in dysmenorrhea for short-term use?

    <p>Paracetamol or ibuprofen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines secondary dysmenorrhea?

    <p>Identifiable pathologic condition is present (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of age, which group is most likely to experience secondary dysmenorrhea?

    <p>Women aged over 30 years (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor does NOT contribute to the assessment of dysmenorrhea?

    <p>Patient's diet (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most effective method to ensure the vaginal area remains dry and cool?

    <p>Maintaining careful hygiene (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following products should be avoided to maintain the protective lining of the vagina?

    <p>Vaginal deodorants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of soap is recommended if a patient insists on using one?

    <p>Unperfumed, mild soap (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a consequence of missing two or more active pills in the first week of taking combined pills?

    <p>Need for emergency contraception (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What underlying issue makes patients with poorly controlled diabetes more susceptible to thrush?

    <p>Enhanced protein surface production on C.albicans (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many hours late does a progestogen-only pill (POP) need to be before it becomes ineffective if taken late?

    <p>More than 3 hours (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which circumstance would NOT typically require a referral for vaginal thrush?

    <p>Previous history of thrush (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication type is indicated for treating vaginal thrush in patients with diabetes?

    <p>Topical imidazoles and systemic triazoles (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if there has been a failure of a barrier method during intercourse?

    <p>Use emergency contraception (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does levonorgestrel have on ciclosporin?

    <p>Inhibits the metabolism of ciclosporin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a patient do if symptoms of thrush do not improve within 3 days?

    <p>Seek medical advice (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement regarding the use of vaginal douches is correct?

    <p>They should be avoided as they can strip protective lining. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor does NOT predispose a woman to vaginal thrush?

    <p>Higher exercise frequency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended single dose of oral fluconazole for treating thrush?

    <p>150 mg (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an inappropriate reason for referral related to STD history?

    <p>Normal vaginal discharge (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the ways 3-Levonorgestrel prevents pregnancy before ovulation?

    <p>It inhibits the release of the ovum from the ovary. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common approach to prevent thrush when taking antibiotics?

    <p>Take antifungal medication alongside antibiotics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary symptom of bacterial vaginosis?

    <p>Strong fishy odour (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic symptom of trichomoniasis?

    <p>Profuse, frothy, greenish-yellow discharge (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism does Ulipristal primarily utilize to prevent pregnancy?

    <p>It inhibits or delays ovulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if a woman is taking ciclosporin and requests emergency hormonal contraception (EHC)?

    <p>Refer her for further assessment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT advised for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment?

    <p>Using strong antiseptic soaps. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential concern with using multiple-dose fluconazole?

    <p>It may interact with other medications. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom could indicate allergic or irritant dermatitis in the vaginal area?

    <p>Recent use of new toiletries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Common cold

    A self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract.

    Viral infection

    An infection caused by a virus.

    Upper Respiratory Tract

    Structures of the respiratory system above the windpipe.

    Self-limiting

    Goes away on its own without treatment.

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    Viral Infection

    An infection caused by a virus; this includes the common cold.

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    Children's colds frequency

    Children get colds more often than adults, averaging 5-6 colds annually, sometimes up to 12.

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    Adult cold frequency

    Adults typically get 2-4 colds per year.

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    Child cold range

    Infrequent colds can occur yearly in the range of 5 to 12 in children.

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    Cold incidence

    Children experience significantly more colds than adults.

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    Cold prevalence

    Children experience a higher frequency of colds than adults.

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    Frontal headache

    A headache that occurs above or below the eyes.

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    Sinusitis

    Inflammation of the sinuses.

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    Persistent frontal headache

    A frontal headache that doesn't go away, or gets worse.

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    Referral for investigation

    Sending a patient to a specialist for further tests.

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    Sinus pain

    Pain in the sinuses

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    Compromised immune system

    A weakened immune system that can't fight infections as effectively.

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    Persisting fever

    A fever that continues for a prolonged period.

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    Productive cough

    A cough that produces mucus or phlegm.

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    Required referral

    Need for a specialist's consultation.

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    corticosteroid or ciclosporin

    Medications that can suppress the immune system.

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    Avoidance

    The act of staying away from something.

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    Diabetes Mellitus

    A medical condition where the body doesn't properly use sugar.

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    Ischemic Heart Disease

    A condition where blood flow to the heart is reduced.

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    Hypertension

    High blood pressure.

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    Hyperthyroidism

    An overactive thyroid gland.

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    Cold/Flu Prevention

    Methods to avoid catching or spreading colds and influenza.

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    Hand Washing

    Thoroughly cleaning hands, especially after contact with potential sources of infection.

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    Nose/Eye Contact

    Avoid touching your nose or eyes after contact with infected individuals.

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    Tissue Disposal

    Immediately discarding used tissues to prevent the spread of germs.

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    Preventing Infections

    Taking actions to stop the transmission of contagious illnesses.

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    Dysmenorrhea

    Painful periods, or menstrual cramps, affecting lower abdomen and back. Can range from mild to severe, impacting day-to-day activities.

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    NSAID for Dysmenorrhea

    Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are often used to manage dysmenorrhea. They help reduce pain and inflammation.

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    Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

    A collection of physical and mental symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, occurring 2-14 days before menstruation. Symptoms usually disappear once bleeding starts.

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    PMS and Ovulation

    PMS is associated with ovulation, as it doesn't occur before puberty, during pregnancy, or after menopause.

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    PMS and Progesterone

    One theory suggests women with PMS are sensitive to progesterone, a hormone released after ovulation. This may reduce levels of pyridoxine, a vitamin involved in mood regulation.

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    PMS Physical Symptoms

    Common PMS physical symptoms include bloating, weight gain, ankle and finger swelling, breast tenderness, and headaches.

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    PMS Mental Symptoms

    PMS can affect mood, leading to irritability, tension, depression, difficulty concentrating, and tiredness.

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    PMS Management

    Managing PMS involves identifying triggers and making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, balanced diet, stress reduction techniques, and over-the-counter medications can help.

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    Thrush vs. BV Discharge

    Discharge with a strong odor and not white and curd-like is more likely due to bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis rather than thrush.

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    Age and Vaginal Thrush

    Women under 16 or over 60 with vaginal thrush symptoms should be referred. This is because the vaginal environment in these age groups is more prone to infections due to hormonal changes.

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    Blood in Vaginal Discharge

    Any blood staining in vaginal discharge should be referred.

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    Itch and Vaginal Thrush

    Itching is a hallmark symptom of vaginal thrush, often more pronounced than in BV or trichomoniasis where itch is mild or absent.

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    Dysuria and Thrush

    Vaginal thrush accompanied by lower abdominal pain or dysuria (painful urination) may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI), requiring referral.

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    First Occurrence of Thrush Symptoms

    Any woman experiencing vaginal thrush symptoms for the first time should be referred.

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    Recurrent Thrush

    More than two episodes of thrush in 6 months may indicate an underlying cause like diabetes and should be referred.

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    Pregnancy and Thrush

    Pregnant women with vaginal thrush should be referred.

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    Thrush in Diabetic Women

    Diabetic women are more prone to vaginal thrush due to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) which helps the Candida albicans fungus thrive.

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    Thrush Referral Criteria

    A patient should be referred for vaginal thrush if it's their first occurrence, they're pregnant, they've had more than 2 episodes in 6 months, or they have an STD history.

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    Thrush and Medications

    Certain medications, like antibiotics, corticosteroids, and hormone therapies, can increase the risk of vaginal thrush.

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    Thrush Treatment Options

    Topical imidazoles and oral fluconazole (like Diflucan) are commonly used to treat vaginal thrush.

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    Oral Fluconazole Dose

    The standard dose for oral fluconazole to treat vaginal thrush is a single 150mg tablet.

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    Thrush Self-Treatment Timeframe

    If thrush symptoms don't improve within 3 days or are not gone within a week, consult a doctor.

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    Thrush and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

    Women with a history of STDs should be referred for vaginal thrush, as it may be a dual infection.

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    Thrush and Diabetes Management

    Patients with diabetes should be referred for vaginal thrush, as it can be harder to treat with their condition.

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    Thrush Environment

    Thrush, a yeast infection, thrives in warm, moist environments.

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    Thrush Prevention: Hygiene

    Maintaining good hygiene, like keeping the vaginal area clean and dry, helps prevent thrush. This includes using cotton underwear and drying thoroughly after bathing.

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    Vaginal Irritants

    Avoid foam baths, soaps, and douches as they can strip away the protective lining of the vagina, making it more susceptible to thrush.

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    EHC: Combined Pills

    If you miss two or more active pills in the first week of a combined pill cycle and unprotected sex occurred, emergency hormonal contraception might be needed.

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    EHC: POPs

    If you miss one or more progestogen-only pills (POPs) or take them late, and unprotected sex occurred in the 2 days following, emergency hormonal contraception might be needed.

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    EHC: Injectable

    If the contraceptive injection is late and unprotected sex occurred, emergency hormonal contraception might be needed.

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    EHC: Barrier Methods

    If a barrier method fails, emergency hormonal contraception might be needed.

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    Ciclosporin Interaction

    Ciclosporin, a medication, interacts with certain progestogens, increasing ciclosporin levels in the body.

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    EHC Ciclosporin Referral

    A woman requesting EHC (Emergency Hormonal Contraception) who is taking ciclosporin should be referred to a healthcare professional.

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    Levonorgestrel's Contraceptive Mechanisms

    Levonorgestrel, a type of emergency contraceptive, works by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation. It can delay or inhibit the release of the egg, interfere with sperm travel, or make the uterus lining unreceptive to the fertilized egg.

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    Ulipristal's Action

    Ulipristal, another emergency contraceptive, works by suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge, which prevents or delays ovulation.

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    Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms

    A common cause of vaginal discharge, bacterial vaginosis is often characterized by a thin, white discharge with a strong fishy odor.

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    Trichomoniasis Symptoms

    Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, can cause a profuse, frothy, greenish-yellow, and foul-smelling discharge, along with itching and soreness.

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    Vaginal Itching - Allergic Dermatitis

    Vaginal itching can be caused by allergic or irritant dermatitis due to recent use of new toiletries, harsh soaps, or vaginal douches.

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    Fluconazole Drug Interactions

    Some drug interactions exist with multiple-dose fluconazole, but their relevance to single-dose fluconazole is unclear. It's advisable to avoid these combinations until further research.

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    Regular Vaginal Cleansing

    Regular washing with warm water is sufficient to maintain a healthy vaginal environment.

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    Potassium Citrate Contraindications

    Potassium citrate should not be given to patients with high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), including those taking ACE inhibitors, K+-sparing diuretics, aldosterone antagonists, and angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It's also not recommended for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or pregnant women.

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    OTC Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

    Over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for UTIs is limited to alkalinizing agents like Sodium Citrate, Sodium Bicarbonate, and Potassium Citrate. These agents help neutralize the urine, making it less acidic and potentially easing symptoms.

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    Dysmenorrhea: Peak Incidence

    Primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods without an underlying cause), is most common between the ages of 17 and 25.

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    Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Age and Referral

    Secondary dysmenorrhea (painful periods due to an identifiable condition) is most common in women over 30 and rare under 25. Women over 30 with dysmenorrhea should be referred to a doctor.

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    Dysmenorrhea: Painless Periods Early On

    Dysmenorrhea may not start at the beginning of menstruation. Painless periods can occur in the first few months or years due to anovulatory cycles (cycles without ovulation).

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    Paracetamol/Ibuprofen for Pain Relief

    Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be recommended for pain relief associated with dysmenorrhea, but only for up to 2 days.

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    Dysmenorrhea: Primary vs. Secondary

    Dysmenorrhea is divided into primary and secondary types. Primary dysmenorrhea involves pain without a known underlying cause, while secondary dysmenorrhea has an identifiable condition like endometriosis.

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    Dysmenorrhea: Menstrual Cycle Length

    The menstrual cycle typically lasts 28 days but can vary between 21 and 45 days. Menstruation itself lasts for 3 to 7 days.

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    Study Notes

    Common Cold and Flu

    • Common Cold: A self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, with over 200 different viruses causing symptoms. Rhinoviruses account for 30-50% of cases.
    • Transmission: Primarily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., doorknobs). Virus droplets from the nose can also contaminate surfaces. Transmission occurs when an uninfected person touches these contaminated surfaces.
    • Secondary Transmission: Transmission is also via coughing and sneezing infected mucus particles.
    • Frequency in Children: Children contract colds more frequently than adults, with an average of 5-6 colds per year, and some children experiencing as many as 12.
    • Patient Assessment: Very young and very old patients need referral. Age affects treatment choice.
    • Duration: Common colds typically last 7-14 days; some symptoms, like a cough, might linger. Abrupt onset usually points to the flu, while a gradual onset often suggests a cold.
    • Symptoms:
    • Sore throat: often the first sign of a cold.
    • Runny/congested nose: Initially, a clear watery fluid, and then thick mucus often follows.
    • Sneezing/coughing.
    • Aches and pains: Headache can be a sign of cold, but constant or worsening can indicate sinusitis, needing further referral. Headaches often worsen when bending or lying down.
    • Low-grade fever: A common cold usually does not involve high fever; fever may indicate the flu. Flu peak incidence is in the winter, while common colds occur year-round.

    Patient Assessment for Colds

    • Age: Important factor in treatment decisions. Very young and elderly patients warrant referral to a doctor.
    • Duration: Gradual onset generally indicates a cold, while abrupt onset might mean the flu. Symptoms typically last 7-14 days for a cold.
    • Presence of Fever: Fever is less common in a cold, whereas it might be present in the flu.
    • Respiratory Symptoms: Cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea, should be significant for possible referral

    Treatment and Management

    • Antibacterials: Ineffective for colds, which are viral; secondary bacterial infections necessitate referral to a doctor.
    • Non-Prescription Treatments: Similar medications treat both colds and influenza.
    • Prevention Measures: Avoid touching eyes or nose, frequently wash hands, especially after blowing your nose, stay away from sick people. Keep rooms well ventilated to help prevent transmission.
    • Management Recommendations: If symptoms persist or worsen, the patient should follow up with their doctor within 10-14 days.
    • Duration of Treatment: Topical decongestants should not be used for longer than 7 days, as rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) is possible.

    Other Considerations

    • Ear infections: Earaches from ear infections can sometimes develop as a complication of a cold, especially in young children–acute otitis media.
    • Secondary infections: Secondary complications to the flu, such as pneumonia, require referral.
    • Pre-existing conditions: Patients with asthma, chronic bronchitis, or other chronic lung diseases need referral for investigations related to symptoms.
    • Medications: Consult a doctor before using symptomatic medications given the patient's overall conditions or other medications.

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    Description

    Explore the differences and similarities between the common cold and flu in this quiz. Learn about transmission modes, frequency in children, and patient assessment. Test your knowledge on viral infections and their implications.

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