Upper respiratory tract infections are common illnesses that affect a large portion of the population year after year. Symptoms are different from one person to another and are by no means mild; they are very conspicuously prominent in terms of severity and extend only to the upper regions of the respiratory structures of the body. Some examples of upper respiratory tract infection-affected parts of the body are the sinuses, nose, larynx, pharynx, and trachea. It is extremely important to know about upper respiratory tract infection definition, what the symptoms are, and when to seek medical attention accordingly. So keep reading for the best ways to ensure effective management and recovery from upper respiratory infection.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection Definition
Upper respiratory tract infection is an infectious disease of relatively high contagiousness afflicting the upper respiratory tract in humans. It is caused mostly by viruses and presents one or more symptoms of sore throat, rhinorrhea or nasal obstruction, coughing, and fever. Most upper respiratory infections get better without treatment after taking an over-the-counter antipyretic and resting.
Common Upper Respiratory Infection Symptoms
There are a number of common upper respiratory infection symptoms, including:
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Headache
- Body aches
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
Less Common Upper Respiratory Tract Infection Symptoms
The following are the less common upper respiratory tract infection symptoms:
- Facial discomfort: Facial discomfort is the kind that is experienced when there is inflammation of the sinuses, and hence, there is pain felt in the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes.
- Ear Pain: Pain in the ear caused due to an obstruction in the Eustachian tube will result in pain in the ear.
- Loss of smell or taste: The affected nasal congestion results in impaired senses of taste and smell.
- Hoarseness: Impact involves the upper respiratory tract infection in larynx hoarseness or temporary loss of voice.
Duration of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection Symptoms
The upper respiratory tract infection symptoms usually last from one week to two and, in some cases, up to three weeks. A dry cough may also be present for three to four weeks.
Below is the duration for each specific upper respiratory tract infection symptoms:
- Viral Infections: Last for one to two weeks
- Bacterial Infections: Generally, they will improve within a few days with proper antibiotic treatments.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider visiting the doctor if the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection persist. This is in case you experience the following:
- Symptoms of severity: If you are experiencing severe pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
- Fever: If you experience a recurring fever or have a high fever lasting more than three days.
- Seek a doctor: When you have symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, consult the doctor for further advice.
- Headache: Visit a medical practitioner if it seems hard for you to manage the headache.
- Cough: If you’re still coughing after three weeks or you notice blood stains, go to the doctor.
- S.O.B: In case you are unable to breathe or wheeze, go check up with a doctor.
Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
There are many protocols you can implement to ensure that you do not fall victim to upper respiratory infections. These include:
- Hygiene: You are supposed to maintain a good hygiene practice. For instance, wash hands well with all the precautions of using soap and water. Every day, take caution, especially when sneezing and coughing.
- Social distance: Keep a distance from people infected with the disease.
- Cough etiquette: Maintain proper cough etiquette by holding your mouth and covering your nose with a tissue; use a proper garbage can after use.
- Vaccination: Get a yearly vaccine against influenza and additional vaccines suggested by your physician within the context of risk factors.
- Use of Masks: Always put on a mask in crowded places and when sick so that illness will not spread.
Conclusion
Understanding the upper respiratory infection definition is crucial in preventing and combating the occurrence of upper respiratory tract infections. It is essential to know all the upper respiratory infection symptoms and know when to seek medical attention, for you to prevent severe effects of the infection. Practising good hygiene and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will ensure the risk of contracting upper respiratory tract infections is minimized. Ensure you are constantly consulting a healthcare professional to clarify any concerns you might have.
