nasofaryngit

Nasofaryngit, also known as the common cold or upper respiratory tract infection, is a viral infection primarily affecting the nose and throat. It is characterized by inflammation of the nasal cavity and the pharynx. The most common causative agents are rhinoviruses, but other viruses such as coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also lead to nasofaryngit.

Symptoms typically appear one to three days after exposure to the virus and include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, and sometimes a mild fever and headache. Infants and young children may also experience irritability and difficulty feeding. The infection is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, as well as through direct contact with contaminated surfaces.

Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms. There is no specific cure for nasofaryngit, as it is a viral infection. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and includes rest, adequate fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications to relieve pain, fever, and congestion. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections and are therefore not prescribed for nasofaryngit. Most cases resolve within a week to ten days, though some symptoms like coughing may persist longer. Prevention strategies include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching one's face.