The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast REBOOT: #457 Cold and Flu Season: Upper Respiratory Infections
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Sep 1, 2025 Dr. Amber Bird, an academic general internist at Penn, engages in a thorough discussion about upper respiratory infections. She shares insights on diagnosing and treating common colds while emphasizing when to prescribe antibiotics judiciously. The conversation also navigates the overlap between COVID-19 and colds, as well as various effective home remedies. Dr. Bird highlights patient communication and education about vaccinations, offering strategies to manage infections in both children and adults. Her practical tips will enhance confidence in clinical practice.
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DIY Trim Bent My Garage Door
- Amber Bird shared a DIY failure where she bent her garage door installing trim and learned to respect trade skills.
- The story highlights limits of translating medical skill to home projects and the value of planning.
Common Cold Is Usually Viral And Self-Limited
- The common cold is synonymous with viral upper respiratory infection and is usually self-limited and nonbacterial.
- Most colds resolve without antibiotics and antibiotics are rarely appropriate.
Use Red Flags And Vitals To Triage
- Focus history and exam on atypical or red-flag features rather than routine symptoms.
- Use normal vital signs (temp, RR, HR) to reassure that severe infection is unlikely.