Do you need to avoid certain foods with an acute upper respiratory tract infection?

Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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Acute upper respiratory infection, commonly known as the common cold, typically manifests with varying degrees of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, pain, fever, cough, and other clinical symptoms. In treating acute upper respiratory infections, particularly during the cold winter months, antiviral medications and drugs that clear heat and detoxify should be given as symptomatic treatment. Additionally, patients should be advised to drink more warm water and avoid consuming spicy, stimulating, or cold foods. Patients can appropriately consume liquid and light diets, and eat fresh vegetables and fruits which are rich in vitamins essential for the body. Increasing the intake of such foods can facilitate a quicker recovery from the illness.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
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Can acute upper respiratory infections heal on their own?

Acute upper respiratory infections can be self-limiting in clinical settings. It is important to know that upper respiratory infections, mostly caused by viruses, account for about 70% to over 90% of cases. When an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus occurs, it is a self-limiting illness. Thus, when acute upper respiratory infections present symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and even coughing or sore throat. If the infection is caused by a virus, the patient can be completely cured. However, it is also important to drink plenty of water during this period and eat foods high in vitamins and proteins to boost the body's immune system. Patients should also be advised to avoid cold and cooling foods, as acute upper respiratory infections can generally heal on their own.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
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Can you drink alcohol with an acute upper respiratory tract infection?

Acute upper respiratory infection, commonly known as the common cold, typically presents clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and even varying degrees of fever. Clinically, these symptoms arise due to lowered immune function in patients, who inadvertently contract viruses or bacteria. Upon experiencing these discomforts, patients are generally advised to promptly use antiviral medications for symptomatic relief. It is common for those with acute upper respiratory infections to avoid spicy and irritating foods in their diet, as well as abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol. It is recommended that these patients favor a bland diet and consume an adequate amount of fresh fruits and vegetables to timely replenish the nutrients needed by the body, which aids in faster recovery from the illness.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
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Can acute upper respiratory tract bacterial infections heal by themselves?

Acute upper respiratory infections are very common in clinical practice, mostly because viruses invade the body causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Only a small number of patients might have bacterial infections on top of the viral infection, or are suffering from an upper respiratory infection caused by a specific bacterium. Clinically, some of these patients can recover on their own, as the severity of respiratory infections varies and some patients have strong immune systems. Therefore, by exercising appropriately in their daily lives, drinking plenty of warm water, and consuming foods high in vitamins and proteins, a small number of these patients with mild conditions can heal on their own.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
59sec home-news-image

Do you need to avoid certain foods with an acute upper respiratory tract infection?

Acute upper respiratory infection, commonly known as the common cold, typically manifests with varying degrees of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, pain, fever, cough, and other clinical symptoms. In treating acute upper respiratory infections, particularly during the cold winter months, antiviral medications and drugs that clear heat and detoxify should be given as symptomatic treatment. Additionally, patients should be advised to drink more warm water and avoid consuming spicy, stimulating, or cold foods. Patients can appropriately consume liquid and light diets, and eat fresh vegetables and fruits which are rich in vitamins essential for the body. Increasing the intake of such foods can facilitate a quicker recovery from the illness.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
1min 15sec home-news-image

What should I do if a child has an acute upper respiratory infection?

When children develop acute upper respiratory infections, the main focuses are to ensure plenty of rest, clear the exterior and reduce heat, and prevent complications. During fever, it is advisable to give liquid or soft foods, encourage increased water intake, and for infants, feed small amounts frequently to avoid symptoms of digestive upset like vomiting and diarrhea. Maintain room temperature between 18 to 22 degrees Celsius, and keep a certain level of humidity. If there is excessive nasal and pharyngeal secretion, a prone position can be helpful. For high fevers, initially use a cold towel to moisten the forehead and the entire head, or use fever patches or a warm bath to alleviate discomfort and prevent febrile convulsions. It is beneficial for the baby to drink more water to replenish the bodily fluids lost due to fever and to facilitate the elimination of toxins. Adequate hydration can help thin the secretions in the nasal passages, making them easier to clear. Medication can also be used for treatment.