Respiratory Tract Infection Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Respiratory tract infection is an infection that occurs in one or more parts of the respiratory tract – including the sinuses, throat, lungs, and so on. The infection can be caused by a virus or bacteria.
Respiratory tract infections can be divided into acute respiratory tract infections (short duration), or chronic respiratory tract infections (long duration). In general, respiratory tract infections can also be divided according to the location of the infection into infections of the upper respiratory tract, which include infections of the nose, sinuses and throat, and infections of the lower respiratory tract, which include infections of the bronchi and lungs.
Respiratory tract infections can be transmitted in several ways. Someone who has an acute respiratory infection can transmit viruses or bacteria through droplets when coughing or sneezing, which can be inhaled by other people.
In addition, transmission can also occur through indirect contact. So, if an infected person touches their nose or eyes before handling an object or surface, the virus can also be transmitted to other people who touch these objects or surfaces afterward.
Symptom
Signs and symptoms of a respiratory tract infection may appear days after an individual is exposed to a virus or bacteria. These signs and symptoms can vary from person to person, which can include:
- Cold or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Body aches
- Headache
- Sneeze
- Mild fever
- feverish
- Decreased appetite
Symptoms commonly observed in infections affecting the upper respiratory tract are cough, headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat and a feeling of aches. As in the upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract infections can also be characterized by a cough, which can be more bothersome and accompanied by phlegm.
Other symptoms of a lower respiratory tract infection can include increased breathing rate, shortness of breath or wheezing.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of respiratory tract infections is generally made based on medical interviews and direct physical examination. If the examining doctor requires further information, blood laboratory tests and chest X-rays can be carried out to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment
Treatment for respiratory tract infections depends on the cause and symptoms experienced. Some treatments that are generally recommended by doctors are:
- Fever-reducing and pain-relieving drugs, which are given to treat complaints of fever, headaches, and body aches.
- Cough relievers, to treat cough complaints. However, this should be discussed further with the doctor because the choice of drug depends on the type of cough you are experiencing.
- Cold relief medicine, which can be given orally (taken by mouth), or through a nasal spray.
- If the infection is caused by bacteria, the doctor can also prescribe antibiotics for consumption.
Prevention
One good way to prevent transmission of respiratory tract infections is to practice good personal hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap.
In addition, living a healthy lifestyle by consuming a balanced nutritional diet and doing regular physical activity can also maintain the immune system to avoid infection.