Definition:
Respiratory infection is more commonly known as upper respiratory infection of (URI). This is a type of infection of the head and chest caused by a virus. The nose, throat, sinuses, ears and airways are affected. This infection usually lasts a couple of weeks.
Diagnosis:
The doctor evaluates the symptoms and determines if these are due to bacterial infection. Health providers may then prescribe antibiotics.
Treatment:
Symptoms manifest between 1 to 3 days after a cold virus is contracted. Patients can keep well hydrated and have plenty of rest. Medication may be needed to deal with they symptoms like ibuprofen for fever, throat lozenges for sore throat, cough drops for coughs, and decongestant for stuffy nose. Physicians may also prescribe antihistamines.
Symptoms and Signs:
URI may produce some of the following symptoms: scratchy or sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion, cough, watery eyes, ear congestion, slight fever, headache and loss of appetite
Causes:
There are more than 200 viruses can cause. Respiratory infection spreads through sneezing, coughing, or personal contact. It is easier to get this infection if the patient is tired or stressed, not eating enough healthy food, smoking and living and working in crowded areas.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
