ARI ( Acute respiratory tract infection)

 Acute respiratory tract infection

Definition:

Acute respiratory infection is an infection that may interfere with normal breathing. It can affect just your upper respiratory system, which starts at your sinuses and ends at your vocal chords, or just your lower respiratory system, which starts at your vocal chords and ends at your lungs.

causes:
Acute respiratory tract infection can be caused by virus and bacteria:

• Viruses

  The most common causes of URIs are viruses, including rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza viruses, influenza viruses, human metapneumovirus, adenoviruses, and coronaviruses. Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of the common cold, accounting for up to 80% of respiratory infections during peak seasons.
• Bacteria

  Some bacteria that can cause URIs include group A streptococci, group C and G streptococci, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Arcanobacterium (Corynebacterium) hemolyticum, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

Symptoms:

• Coughing, with or without mucus
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained tiredness
• Loss of or change in sense of taste or smell

Treatment:

• Rest and hydration: Get enough sleep and drink lots of water to loosen mucus and help you cough.

• Pain relievers: Take painkillers to reduce fever and help with headaches, muscle pain, and sore throat.

• Cough suppressants and expectorants: These can help relieve symptoms.

• Antibiotics: If the infection is bacterial, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics should be used with caution, as they can be harmful if taken when not needed. 

• Nasal decongestants: These can help with congestion and cough.

• Salt water gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can help with a sore throat.

• Vitamin C and zinc: These can help reduce symptoms or shorten their duration.

Categories: Acute respiratory tract infection, Fever