No matter how careful you are while you are outside, atmospheric pollutants and irritants can cause respiratory problems. For family members with asthma or another respiratory condition, the entire family should take care and not just the individual affected as the risk factors may be the same.

A care plan should be sought from the doctor concerned, to follow up in case of increasing symptoms. It is essential to follow the plan carefully and if you are still having problems, ensure easy access to the doctor for immediate, further advice.

Care for persons diagnosed with RTI

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids
• Eating nutritious food will help to cope with RTIs, and a dietitian can help to plan the best diet according to the situation (there may be special dietary needs) to combine items that a person finds tempting, are available and also nutritious.
• Call the doctor if symptoms get worse or last longer than one week
• Keep mucous membranes moist with a humidifier and petroleum jelly around the nose
• Saline nose drops can also help loosen mucous- ask your doctor how to make this solution and how frequently to use it.
• Prepare a list of family and friends you can contact in case of an emergency
• The amount and type of exercise that a person is expected to do will depend on what the person is used to and how well he/she feels. Discuss with your doctor what is best for you. Some people find relaxation or meditation helps them feel better by releasing tension and anxiety.

Medication

Though antibiotics are not necessary to treat viral respiratory tract infections, a physician’s intervention must be sought to initiate any medication. Infants and younger children are particularly sensitive to the side effects of decongestants and may experience agitation, confusion, hallucinations, lethargy, and rapid heart rate, therefore necessitating a doctor’s advice on suitable medication.

Respiratory equipment

When you breathe with the help of equipment (nebulizers, compressors and oxygen concentrators.) you run the risk of breathing in dust as well as any germs that might be growing on their surface. Clean all equipment thoroughly and frequently. This includes cleaning any filters that might be a part of the equipment. Clean medicine nebulizers after each use by using one-part white vinegar to three-parts water. Let the pieces air-dry thoroughly on a clean towel before using them again. Consult with your doctor, if you have questions about any of your home respiratory equipment.