How to treat respiratory tract infections?

Written by Li Fang Xiao
Internal Medicine
Updated on September 02, 2024
00:00
00:00

Respiratory infections are common situations in both clinical and daily life. The focus of treating respiratory infections is to identify the cause. For example, upper respiratory infections are most commonly caused by viral infections, primarily presenting symptoms such as coughing, sputum production, nasal congestion, runny nose, and sore throat, and may be accompanied by fever. The treatment can involve taking antiviral medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce fever when it occurs. For lower respiratory infections, such as lung infections, these are often due to bacterial infections. Identifying the type of bacteria through blood or sputum cultures can allow for targeted antibiotic treatment. It is important to avoid catching colds, exercise regularly, and improve overall fitness to prevent respiratory infections.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
1min 24sec home-news-image

How is an upper respiratory infection caused?

Upper respiratory tract infections are generally caused by pathogens such as viruses, fungi, and parasites that invade the patient's throat, causing acute inflammation. Viruses are the most common infectious agents, including rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, influenza viruses, and others, which can cause these symptoms. In some cases, bacterial infections are the cause, often due to exposure to cold weather, sudden drops in temperature, or excessive fatigue, leading to rapid reproduction of viruses or bacteria and triggering the illness. It is advised that everyone actively seek symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a doctor. The main treatment should include rest and drinking plenty of water. Antiviral medicines may be used, such as antiviral oral solutions, heat-clearing and detoxifying oral solutions, or Scutellaria baicalensis oral solutions. If antibiotic treatment is necessary, anti-inflammatory drugs like erythromycin or penicillin may be used. (Note: The above medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
40sec home-news-image

Is an upper respiratory infection contagious?

Upper respiratory infections are contagious to some extent, as they are mostly caused by common pathogens such as rhinoviruses, streptococci, bacteria, mycoplasma, and other infectious agents. Clinically, they encompass a variety of diseases, including acute rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, etc. These infections often spread through close contact and airborne droplets. Whether an individual gets infected mainly depends on the body's immune response. If a person has been vaccinated against a contagious disease and has developed antibodies, they generally will not be infected.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
1min 2sec home-news-image

Upper respiratory tract infection fever lasts for a few days

Upper respiratory infections generally come with symptoms of fever and the illness usually lasts about seven to eight days, with the fever persisting for about three to four days. It's suggested not to worry too much. If the temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, it's then advisable to take some antipyretic medication to reduce the fever. During this period, use physical cooling methods, drink plenty of water to promote metabolism and enhance immunity. Diet should be light, and one can also take some heat-clearing, detoxifying, and fire-eliminating medicines. Regular physical exercise is also important to strengthen the physique. Avoid staying up late and ensure sufficient sleep. It's advised to have appropriate examinations and proceed with targeted treatments after a clear diagnosis, which is crucial. It's also recommended to frequently ventilate indoor spaces to maintain fresh air.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
41sec home-news-image

Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms

The typical symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection include nasal congestion, coughing, swelling and pain in the throat, phlegm, and difficulty breathing. During the acute phase, it can also cause chills, high fever, and loss of appetite. It is important to determine whether the infection is caused by bacteria, a virus, or mycoplasma, and to treat it accordingly with targeted antibiotics or antiviral medications. Avoid eating highly irritating foods, measure body temperature twice daily, and treat the cause while managing the symptoms. Generally, one can gradually recover back to normal health within three to seven days.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
46sec home-news-image

Symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection

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.