Chapter 29: Upper Respiratory Problems

Epistaxis management involves positioning techniques, direct pressure application, topical vasoconstrictors, and advanced interventions like nasal packing or cauterization, with posterior nosebleeds requiring hospitalization due to bleeding severity. Allergic rhinitis pathophysiology centers on immunoglobulin E-mediated inflammatory responses to environmental allergens, managed through allergen avoidance strategies, antihistamine therapy, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and immunotherapy protocols. Upper respiratory infections encompass viral rhinopharyngitis treated with supportive care measures, influenza requiring annual vaccination and antiviral medications like oseltamivir, and sinusitis involving blocked sinus drainage treated with decongestants, saline irrigation, and targeted antibiotic therapy for bacterial cases. Pharyngeal disorders include acute pharyngitis differentiation between viral and bacterial streptococcal infections requiring specific antibiotic protocols, and peritonsillar abscess complications demanding surgical drainage or tonsillectomy. Laryngeal pathology covers vocal cord polyps from mechanical trauma, acute laryngitis managed with voice rest and hydration, and emergency airway obstruction requiring immediate interventions including endotracheal intubation or emergency tracheostomy. The chapter concludes with head and neck malignancies, predominantly squamous cell carcinomas linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus exposure, requiring multimodal treatment approaches including surgical resection, radiation therapy, chemotherapy protocols, and comprehensive rehabilitation for communication and swallowing function restoration.