Respiratory infections in children. What helps and what doesn't?

Respiratory disorders are common in children. Upper respiratory infection is particularly common in children who receive day care or group care. Frequently used methods of treating the common cold (eg, heated vapor, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants) have not been proven objectively to be beneficial in young children. Sinusitis is usually diagnosed through history taking (eg, complaints of more than 9 days of non-improving nasal congestion and/or cough), but radiographs may be necessary. Antibiotics effective against specific causative agents are the treatment of choice. Data do not support routine use of myringotomy to treat acute otitis media, but combined with tube placement, this method is useful for recurrent infection. Antibiotic prophylaxis may help prevent recurrent episodes of acute otitis media. Before tonsillectomy is considered for pharyngitis, a history of recurrent episodes must be documented. Epiglottitis, although increasingly rare, should still be considered when certain specific clinical signs are present.