VIRAL INFECTIONS - Full extract 

There are always a few viral infections doing the rounds, causing either respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms. Although they sometimes cause a lot of absenteeism at work and school, the infections usually subside without any specific treatment. 

If the symptoms of a viral upper respiratory infection are not settling after a few days, it is better to see the doctor for a check-up. It should be confirmed that a viral infection is responsible and that there has been no complication like a secondary bacterial infection. Occasionally, people develop a heavy cough and an associated chest infection. Antibiotics are sometimes necessary, even though they have no effect on the viral infection itself. 

A viral upper respiratory infection can also unmask some underlying asthma, that previously had not been apparent. Wheezing, shortness of breath or a dry cough might appear for the first time. The a asthma requires specific treatment whilst the underlying viral infection just clears spontaneously. At times the dry cough can be so persistent that one of the preventive asthma inhalers may be necessary to settle the symptoms. 

Patients are sometimes a little surprised when the doctor says that their heavy cold is just viral and will go away by itself. There is an old misunderstanding that these viruses are better "nipped in the bud" with some antibiotics. I have no idea where that expression came from and I am constantly asked to nip the un-nippable. Antibiotics are fine for infections caused by bacteria but viruses are smaller, different structures that do not respond to antibiotic treatment. There is also the possibility that the antibiotics will cause side-effects like indigeston, thrush or a rash. There is also a broader concern that the careless use of antibiotics is leading to the appearance of bacteria that are now resistant to many standard antibiotics. 

Viruses cause a huge number of common illnesses...the common cold, influenza, gastroenteritis, measles, mumps, chickenpox, rubella, glandular fever, hepatitis and herpes infections to name a few. Interestingly, there are very few effective antiviral medications. For some years Acyclovir has been used very successfully for the treatment of shingles and herpes infections. Until medical research does produce more effective antiviral drugs, most viral infections will remain beyond the range of treatment. However, standard childhood immunisation offers excellent protection against viral infections such as measles, mumps, rubella and polio. Vaccines against influenza, hepatitis B and hepatitis A are also available for those who require them. 

We also frequently see many cases of viral gastroenteritis. The typical symptoms are nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, often with associated cramping abdominal pains. Again the illness is self-limiting and no specific treatment is necessary. The main concern is to make sure that fluid balance is maintained and that no dehydration occurs. This is especially important in babies, young children and the elderly. Oral rehydration fluids, like Gastrolyte, are available from the chemist and can be very helpful in this regard. 

GP's are very used to seeing people with viral infections... and are ready to spot the occasional infection that might not be behaving normally. If you have any concerns about how a viral illness is progressing, see your family doctor for advice.

Health Tip:
* Most common viral infections get better without specific treatment. In nearly all cases antibiotics are not required.

Dr. Andrew Pattison: Common Consultations
North East Valley Division General Practice, Melbourne, Australia.   Disclaimer
  - Last modified: August 18, 2001