What are the symptoms and complications of a respiratory infection?
Respiratory or respiratory tract infection is an infection that occurs in any area of the airways, from the upper or upper respiratory tract, such as the nostrils, throat, or facial bones, to the lower or lower respiratory tract, such as the bronchi and lungs..
- Usually this type of infection is caused by microorganisms such as viruses.
- Bacteria or fungi.
- Of different types.
- Causing symptoms such as runout.
- Sneezing.
- Coughing.
- Fever or sore throat for example.
- These infections are more common in winter because there is the period during which there is the greatest circulation of microorganisms.
- Since the temperature drops and there is a greater tendency to stay indoors.
- Find out which winter diseases are the most common and how to avoid them.
Acute respiratory infections are the most common and generally contagious, especially those caused by viruses, which spread easily in busy places, such as schools, day care centers, or buses. Low infections, which affect the bronchi and lungs, tend to be more serious and affect people at higher risk, such as infants, children, the elderly and people with compromised immunity.
There is not only one type of respiratory infection, but several infections that can reach the airways, some more benign and others more severe.Some of the most common causes of respiratory infections include:
These infections can be classified as acute, when they appear suddenly and get worse quickly, or as chronic, when they have a long duration, slow progression and difficult treatment, which usually occurs in some cases of sinusitis, bronchitis or tuberculosis, for example.
Diagnosing a respiratory infection usually requires a doctor to evaluate it, who will identify symptoms and perform a physical assessment, such as lung auscultation and pharynge observation, for example.
In cases of suspected more serious infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, or if there is any doubt about the cause, tests such as chest x-rays, blood tests or sputum tests may be necessary to identify the microorganism that generated the infection. the most appropriate treatment.
The most common symptoms of a respiratory infection are
In some cases, shortness of breath may occur, but this indicates that the condition can be severe, requiring an evaluation as soon as possible by your doctor to identify the causes and indicate the best form of treatment.
Treatment of respiratory infection depends on its cause and severity of the infection, so rest is usually indicated, the use of painkillers and antipyretics, such as dipyrone or acetaminophen, and good hydration throughout the day.
Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or azithromycin, are only indicated when bacterial infections are suspected, which is more common in high fever situations, when the infection persists for more than 7 to 10 days, or in cases of pneumonia.
Antifungals may also be used, even if the cause of the infection is suspected to be due to fungi.
In addition, people admitted to the hospital may need respiratory physical therapy to eliminate lung secretions and relieve discomfort caused by the disease.
To prevent respiratory infections, it is recommended to avoid crowded areas, contact with infected people and always wash your hands and avoid placing objects in your nose or mouth, as these are the main forms of contagion.
It is also recommended to maintain the balance of the immune system, which is facilitated by a balanced diet, rich in vegetables, cereals and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, present in fruits.In addition, it is recommended to avoid very humid environments, with excess dust, mold and mites to avoid allergies, which can be accompanied by infection.
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