Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Authored by Dr.Naren Pandey
Introduction
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections refer to a group of acute contagious infections which involves the nose, sinuses, pharynx and larynx. These are the most common reasons for doctor visits. Most of the cases of URTI are reported in the fall and winter seasons. These illnesses are not life threatening but may lead to severe complications. There are several types of URTI based on the target of the infection: • Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal cavity. • Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses around the nose. • Nasopharyngitis: Inflammation of the nares, pharynx, hypopharynx, uvula and tonsils. • Epiglottitis: Inflammation of the epiglottis. • Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx. • Laryngotracheitis: Inflammation of the larynx and the trachea. • Tracheitis: Inflammation of the trachea. Causes Viruses are responsible for the majority of URTI cases, whereas bacteria are the cause in rest of the cases. Among viruses, Rhinovirus is most commonly reported as the causative agent. Other viruses include Corona virus, Para influenza virus, Adeno virus, Entero virus and Respiratory Syncytial virus.
Symptoms After exposure to the causative agent, it takes approximately one to three days for onset of symptoms. Symptoms may differ according to the virus/bacteria involved in the infection. These are the commonly observed symptoms: • Nasal congestion • Sneezing • Sore throat • Cough (dry or with white sputum) • Muscle aches • Head ache • Low grade fever • Change in voice
Diagnosis Upper Respiratory Tract Infections are usually diagnosed by history and physical examination, but in some cases tests are performed: • X-ray of the chest is required to rule out Pneumonia. • Lateral X-ray of the neck can be useful in the diagnosis of Epiglottitis. • CT-scan is done to diagnose Sinusitis. • Throat swab: Rapid detection of antigen can be used to diagnose group A beta hemolytic strep. Who are at Risk The following are associated with Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: • Exposure to common cold patient in the surrounding. • Unhygienic habits. • Low humidity. • Weak immune system. • Children and elderly people. • Too frequent touching of nose and eyes. • People suffering from COPD, asthma, diabetes or heart diseases. Treatment Drug treatment is not recommended for URTI, but the following drugs can be used to relieve symptoms: • Anti-pyretic: These medicines can lower the temperature in patients suffering from fever. Ex: Paracetamol • NSAIDs: These medicines are prescribed to relieve headache and muscular pain. Ex: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, etc. • Cough Medicines: These are liquid drugs available as syrups to decrease cough. • Decongestants: These medications help in the elimination of mucus from the body. • Antibiotics: These medicines are not recommended in URTIs unless bacterial infection is confirmed. These drugs mainly help in preventing complications due to bacterial infections. Ex: Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Cefaclor, Cephalexin, etc. Non-drug therapy includes: • Gargling with salt water can relieve sore throat. • Steam inhalation can help in alleviating the symptoms. • Taking food rich in vitamin C can reduce the duration of symptoms. • Talking less if you are experiencing hoarseness. • Exercising may help reduce severity of infection. • Avoiding alcohol as it increases the risk of infection by depressing the immune system. • Avoiding smoking as it irritates the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract making it more susceptible to infections. • Adding zinc rich food to your diet as it can decrease viral growth and enhance immune system.
Applying camphor and menthol ointments topically to relieve night time symptoms. • Using nasal saline drops to ease congestion. If untreated, complications may include: • Bacterial bronchitis • Bacterial sinusitis • Worsening of Asthma • Pneumonia • Otitis media Prevention You can certainly prevent URTI by: • Avoiding contact with an infected person • Using appropriate anti-bacterial soap • Washing your hands before touching your eyes or nose • Eating a well-balanced diet • Requesting infected persons to cover their nose and mouth with a cloth before sneezing or coughing • Getting vaccinated against viral infections • Including probiotic rich food in your diet • Wiping/cleaning objects touched by infected person like remote control, mobiles and door knobs. •