Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. RTIs are cause by a variety of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, and can range from mild to severe in severity. Respiratory tract infections include coughing, sore throat, runny nose, and fever. In the past, treatment for RTIs has primarily been in-person visits to healthcare providers. However, with the advent of technology, more and more healthcare providers are now offering online respiratory tract infections treatment. In this article, we will discuss Respiratory tract infections and its treatment, as well as the steps involved in receiving this type of care.

What causes respiratory infections?

A cold, also known as the common cold, can be cause by many different respiratory viruses .

A respiratory virus, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) , can cause serious illnesses in infants and young children, especially premature babies or children with certain previous illnesses.

In the case of flu , it is the influenza virus and, in the case of COVID-19, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that trigger these more serious diseases.

In the case of a viral infection, the mucous membrane of the respiratory organs can be damage to such an extent that bacteria can also penetrate and multiply. Depending on the type of bacteria, a simple cold can develop into a sinus infection, bronchitis or, rarely, pneumonia. The flu also takes a more severe course with such an additional bacterial infection (“secondary infection”).

What are the symptoms of the disease?

A cold usually develops over several days. At first you feel exhaust, your throat is scratchy and sore, your nose is stuff up or you start running. There are also occasional headaches, body aches and fever. When the deep airways are affected, for example in acute bronchitis, a cough and cold also develops.

Flu (influenza) is more severe. It starts suddenly with a high fever, sore throat and a dry cough as well as muscle, joint, back or headache pain. The sick feel very weak. Sweating, shortness of breath and sometimes nausea and diarrhea are also common.

The course of a corona infection can be very different. Most COVID-19 courses are rather mild. Common symptoms of COVID-19 are sore throat, hoarseness, cough, fever, runny nose and disorders of the sense of smell and/or taste. In addition to the respiratory organs, other organ systems such as the cardiovascular system, nervous system, liver and kidneys can also be affect.

When should I go to the doctor?

The symptoms of respiratory tract infections start suddenly and severely affect your general condition. It is advisable to consult your doctor. A doctor’s office should be consult from the third day of illness at the latest, particularly if the fever persists. Diseases are often more severe in older people or people with a weakened immune system. To be on the safe side, anyone who is chronically ill or has regular contact with people at increased risk should have their complaints checked out by a doctor. In children and especially in infants, special care should be taken in the event of a respiratory infection, especially if there is a high fever. 

Read More: All about acne and Belkyra: Tips and managing

What do I have to consider in the event of illness?

In the case of respiratory tract infections, usually only the symptoms are treat, for example with antipyretic or expectorant agents and decongestant nose drops. Antibiotics are ineffective against respiratory infections cause by viruses. The doctor will only prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of a bacterial infection. Such signs can be a persistent high fever (>38.5°C), purulent nasal discharge or cough with purulent sputum. Antibiotics must always be taken in the appropriate dosage for the entire prescribe period, even if the symptoms of the disease have already subside. Otherwise, the pathogens can become resistant (“resistant”) to the antibiotic. And the infection can flare up again.

In order not to spread respiratory tract infections, sufferers should pay particular attention to hygiene. Above all, this means washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and covering your mouth and nose with the crook of your arm or a handkerchief when coughing and sneezing. Use handkerchiefs should always be disposed of immediately in a rubbish bin. Personal items such as towels that come into contact with nasal secretions, for example, should only be used by one person.

How can I protect myself from respiratory tract infections ?

In the event of waves of illness or if respiratory tract infections occur in the personal environment, hygiene measures help to prevent infection. Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly is helpful to reduce the risk of contracting pathogens via a smear infection. You should also avoid touching your face with unwashed hands so that pathogens do not get to the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose or eyes.

If contact with the sick cannot be avoid, a minimum distance of 1.5 meters should be maintain. A mouth and nose protector provides additional protection.

There is no vaccination against the pathogens that cause the common cold. It is therefore important to comply with hygiene measures to reduce the risk of infection.

Vaccinations for adults and children are available against other respiratory infections, for example against COVID-19 or influenza.

Conclusion

Online respiratory tract infections treatment is a growing trend in the healthcare industry, as more and more people turn to the internet for medical advice and treatment options. These infections, which affect the nose, throat, and lungs, can range from mild to severe and can include conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Online respiratory tract infections treatment is a convenient and cost-effective option for many people. It offers patients a wide range of treatment options and resources, and can help to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.