Dietary Guidance for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
Updated on June 23, 2025
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After an upper respiratory tract infection, symptoms such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, and sore throat often occur. After an upper respiratory tract infection, there are certain dietary requirements. Generally speaking, it is recommended to eat light foods and avoid greasy and spicy foods. Additionally, drink plenty of water, get enough rest, avoid exposure to cold, and ensure the room is well-ventilated to aid in recovery. Some medications can also be used to treat the symptoms and alleviate those of the upper respiratory tract infection.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
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What medicine to take for respiratory infection?

If there are signs of a respiratory infection, it is mostly caused by bacteria, viruses, and other microbial infections. It is advised to undergo a routine blood test under the guidance of a doctor to determine the type of infection, and then to treat it with appropriate anti-infective medication as directed by a doctor. Symptomatic treatment should also be given. Common symptoms of respiratory infections include coughing, sputum production, and sore throat. During such times, it's advisable to take cough suppressants and expectorants, or use throat lozenges to alleviate sore throat. Additionally, drinking more water to aid metabolism and enhance immunity, eating a light diet, avoiding staying up late, maintaining a relaxed mood, and avoiding excessive stress or emotional excitement are recommended.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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Can I eat lamb with an upper respiratory infection?

Mutton is delicious and highly nutritious, making it a favorite food among the people in our country. However, can one still eat mutton after contracting an upper respiratory tract infection? Whether it is appropriate to eat mutton depends on the specific circumstances. If the symptoms are mild after falling ill, with no fever, and the patient's appetite is still good, then it is permissible to eat mutton under these conditions. However, if the patient's symptoms are severe, with a noticeable fever and poor appetite, it is then advised not to consume mutton. In such cases, it is generally recommended to follow a light diet, avoiding greasy and spicy foods. Mutton tends to be greasy and hard to digest, which could hinder recovery from the illness.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
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How to treat upper respiratory tract infections

If an upper respiratory tract infection is severe, it is necessary to take anti-inflammatory and anti-infection medications under the guidance of a doctor. The first and most important step is to identify the cause of the infection under medical supervision and then use medication accordingly, which is crucial. Additionally, it is advised to support the treatment by drinking more water, resting adequately, avoiding overexertion, and eating a bland diet without spicy, greasy, or cold and irritating foods. An upper respiratory tract infection may also be accompanied by fever. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5℃, fever-reducing medications should be taken. Moreover, it is important to drink plenty of water to promote excretion. If the body temperature is between 37.5℃ and 38.5℃, physical cooling methods can be used. It is also recommended to rest well, frequently ventilate indoor spaces, and ensure air remains fresh and circulating.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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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.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
45sec home-news-image

What should I do if I have an upper respiratory tract infection?

What to do with an upper respiratory tract infection? Firstly, one should choose antimicrobial agents to treat the inflammatory response of the body, that is, anti-infection treatment. It is necessary to check routine blood tests, mycoplasma, C-reactive protein, or undergo sputum pathogen culture. If it is caused by mycoplasma infection, one can choose macrolide antibiotics. If it is due to common bacterial or viral infections, one can choose beta-lactam antibiotics, or some Chinese patent medicine preparations that clear heat and detoxify, all of which can treat diseases of the upper respiratory tract infection.