Respiratory infections: symptoms, causes and treatment.
Respiratory infection, airway infection, is an infection that occurs in any region of the airways, from the upper airways to the upper respiratory tract, such as the nostrils, throat or sinuses, to the lower or lower respiratory tract such as the bronchi and lungs.
- Generally this type of infection is caused by microorganisms such as viruses.
- Bacteria or fungi of different types.
- Causing symptoms such as runny nose.
- Starlings.
- Cough.
- Feverish sore throat.
- For example.
- These infections are more frequent in winter.
- When there is the greatest circulation of microorganisms.
- But the ambient temperature remains low and there is a greater tendency to remain in confined spaces.
Acute respiratory infections in the wrong communities and themselves are contagious, mainly those caused by viruses that spread easily in places with crowds of people like schoolchildren, running buses, for example, have low infections that reach the bronchi and lungs, are more severe and attack people at higher risk, such as infants, children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
Not only is there a type of respiratory infection, but there are several that can reach the airways, some more benign and others more severe. Here are some examples of the most common causes of respiratory infections:
These infections can be classified as acute respiratory infections, when they appear suddenly and emerge quickly, or as chronic respiratory infections when they are long, slow and difficult to treat, and may occur in some cases of sinusitis, bronchitis or tuberculosis, for example.
To diagnose a respiratory infection, your doctor usually needs to evaluate your symptoms, identify your symptoms, and perform a physical exam such as lung auscultation and pharynge observation, for example.
For serious infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, where there is no doubt that this may be the cause, tests such as chest x-ray, hematology or sputum may be needed to identify the microorganism that generates the infection, and then decide on the most appropriate treatment.
The most common symptoms of a respiratory infection are
Shortness of breath can occur in some cases, however, it is a sign that it can be severe, although it needs to be evaluated more quickly by your doctor to identify the causes and indicate the best treatment.
Treatment of respiratory infections depends on the cause and severity of the infection, as rest is generally indicated, the use of analgesics and antipyretics such as dipyrone or acetaminophen, and a lot of hydration during the day.
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin or azithromycin, for example, are only indicated in cases of bacterial infection, which is common in high blood pressure situations, where the infection persists for more than 7 to 10 days in cases of pneumonia.
Antifungals can also be used only when the cause of the infection is suspected to be due to fungi. In addition, inpatients may require respiratory physiotherapy to eliminate lung secretions and relieve patient discomfort.
To prevent respiratory infections, it is recommended to avoid crowded areas, contact with infected people, wash your hands and avoid placing objects in your nose or mouth, which are the main forms of contagion.
It is also recommended to maintain a good immune system, easy to maintain with a balanced diet rich in vegetables, herbs and antioxidants such as vitamin C, present in fruits. In addition to this, avoid very humid environments with excess octopus, mold and mites are recommended to avoid allergies that may be accompanied by an infection.