An acute upper respiratory infection involves the upper respiratory tract specifically the nose, throat, larynx, pharynx and bronchi. Common cold is the most common form of acute upper respiratory infection.
The infection can be caused by both bacteria and viruses.
Viruses
- Adenovirus
- Rhinovirus
- Coxsackie virus
- Parainfluenza virus
- Respiratory syncytial virus
Bacteria
- Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Chlamydia pneumoniae
- Corynebacterium diphtheriae
What are the indications?
The distinctive symptoms of an acute upper respiratory tract infection include nasal congestion, runny nose, coughing, sneezing and sputum. The symptoms are brought about by inflammation of the mucous membranes in the upper respiratory tract.
Other signs that might be present include:
- Fatigue
The treatment for an acute upper respiratory tract infection is generally aimed on providing relief to the symptoms. - Fever
- Wheezing
- Headache
- Pain when swallowing
Management of an acute upper respiratory infection
The treatment for an acute upper respiratory tract infection is generally aimed on providing relief to the symptoms. It is important to note that some can greatly benefit from expectorants, cough suppressants, vitamin C and zinc to lessen the symptoms or shorten the duration.
Other treatment options include the following:
- Nasal decongestants – these are given to improve breathing
- Steam inhalation and a salt water gargle can provide relief to the symptoms
- Analgesics such as NSAIDs and acetaminophen to lower fever and body aches
Prevention
The ideal protection against an acute upper respiratory infection is regular hand washing with soap and water. Remember that washing hands lowers the risk for exposure to the secretions that allows the infection to spread.
Some of these measures include:
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals
- Wipe down any objects such as phones, remote controls and doorknobs
- Cover the mouth and nose if sick
- Stay home if sick