Symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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The symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection mainly manifest as fever, sore throat, cough, difficulty breathing, and sputum production. Some cases may also present with signs of hypoxia, leading to phenomena like cyanosis of the lips. Firstly, drink plenty of water and measure body temperature. If there is acute inflammation, a sensitive antibiotic must be chosen, accompanied by antipyretic analgesic drugs to relieve symptoms. Additionally, taking medication to dilute the sputum and alleviate spasms of the bronchial smooth muscles is advised for symptomatic treatment. A treatment course generally requires five to ten days and regular follow-up checks are necessary. It is important to quit smoking and drinking, and to drink plenty of water.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
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Is an upper respiratory tract infection easy to recover from?

Upper respiratory tract infections are clinically categorized as respiratory diseases and occur at a very high frequency. Patients with upper respiratory tract infections generally recover easily as long as their immune system is in good condition. Most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses, and patients with decent immune function can often recover without medication within about a week. However, some infections in the upper limbs, which may be caused by bacteria or mycoplasma, present various clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, and cough. Patients like these generally require appropriate anti-infection treatment, as well as medication to combat the mycoplasma, and their recovery might take slightly longer.

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What to eat for upper respiratory tract infections

Patients with upper respiratory tract infections should pay attention to their diet by preferring light meals, drinking more water, consuming more juices such as fruit and vegetable juices to supplement vitamins, or eating fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to enhance their immunity and promote cellular repair, which can facilitate recovery from the infection. Additionally, they should avoid spicy, greasy, cold, and irritating foods. Treatment should also involve taking anti-inflammatory and anti-infection medications, as well as cold remedies under the guidance of a doctor. It is also advised to frequently ventilate rooms to maintain fresh and circulating indoor air, ensure the environment is not too dry, and that temperature and humidity are appropriate. Moreover, one should avoid staying up late and ensure sufficient sleep to boost their immune system. (Note: This answer is for reference only. Medications should be administered under the guidance of a professional physician, and self-medication should be avoided.)

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How to treat upper respiratory tract infections?

In clinical treatment of upper respiratory infections, it is essential to analyze the specific course of the illness. In the early stages of viral infections, if symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, and runny nose are present, antihistamines and antiviral medications for clearing heat and detoxification can be used for symptomatic treatment, such as 999 Cold Remedy Granules, antiviral oral liquids, etc. In later stages, if there is a concurrent bacterial infection with thick, yellow phlegm, treatment can include the combined use of antibiotics. Amoxicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics are possible choices.

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Written by Han Shun Li
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Upper respiratory tract infection current treatment

Upper respiratory infections are the most common infectious diseases, most of which are caused by viral infections, with a minority being bacterial infections. Regarding the treatment of upper respiratory infections: If it is a bacterial infection, sensitive antibiotics should be chosen for treatment. Commonly used antibiotics include penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolide lactones, etc. If it is a viral infection, there are currently no particularly effective antiviral drugs for treatment. However, if chosen appropriately, some antiviral drugs can still be effective. Treatment for upper respiratory infections also involves symptomatic management, such as using antipyretic analgesics for fever, and cough suppressants for coughing, etc. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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The difference between upper respiratory tract infection and lower respiratory tract infection.

The difference between upper respiratory tract infections and lower respiratory tract infections mainly lies in the location of the infection. The pathogen causing the infection could be the same. If an upper respiratory tract infection is not treated in time, the pathogen might infect downwards and cause a lower respiratory tract infection. Compared to upper respiratory tract infections, which are commonly seen in clinical practice, lower respiratory tract infections are less common. Therefore, whether it is an upper or lower respiratory tract acute inflammation, sufficient and sensitive antimicrobial drugs should be chosen according to the treatment course for proper treatment.