Upper respiratory tract infection current treatment

Written by Han Shun Li

Pulmonology

Updated on October 27, 2024

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Upper respiratory infections are the most common infectious diseases, most of which are caused by viral infections, with a minority being bacterial infections. Regarding the treatment of upper respiratory infections: If it is a bacterial infection, sensitive antibiotics should be chosen for treatment. Commonly used antibiotics include penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolide lactones, etc. If it is a viral infection, there are currently no particularly effective antiviral drugs for treatment. However, if chosen appropriately, some antiviral drugs can still be effective. Treatment for upper respiratory infections also involves symptomatic management, such as using antipyretic analgesics for fever, and cough suppressants for coughing, etc. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

38sec

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Causes of upper respiratory tract infections

There are many causes of upper respiratory tract infections, the most common being due to factors such as exposure to cold, staying up late, fatigue, mental stress, and lack of sleep, which lead to a decrease in the body's resistance. The normal pathogenic bacteria in the body gain the upper hand, easily causing respiratory infections. Additionally, it's also possible for patients with weak constitutions to come into contact with pathogens, for example, being around patients with pneumonia or influenza. The exhaled gases from these patients can contain certain pathogens, making it easy to inhale them through the respiratory tract and cause infections.

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Written by Wang Xiang Yu

Pulmonology

1min 14sec

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Upper respiratory tract infection complications

Upper respiratory tract infections, also known as URIs, refer to acute inflammation occurring from the external nostril to the lower edge of the cricoid cartilage, commonly affecting the nasal cavities, pharynx, and larynx. Most patients with upper respiratory infections experience mild symptoms and a short disease course, generally having a good prognosis with self-recovery. However, a small subset of upper respiratory tract infections can lead to complications such as sinusitis, otitis media, and tracheobronchitis. Some infections that manifest primarily as pharyngitis can lead to secondary conditions like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis caused by Streptococcus. In these cases, the prognosis may not be as favorable. Additionally, a small number of patients might develop more severe illnesses, such as viral myocarditis, which significantly affects the prognosis. Therefore, upper respiratory tract infections should not be underestimated, and proactive prevention and treatment are essential.

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Written by Li Fang Xiao

Internal Medicine

59sec

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What should I do about a respiratory infection?

Respiratory infections are the most common type of infection encountered in both clinical and daily life, primarily divided into upper and lower respiratory tract infections. An upper respiratory tract infection, commonly referred to as a cold, is mainly characterized by nasal congestion, runny nose, and sore throat, and is mostly caused by viral infections. In the early stages, antiviral medication can be taken, and by checking a complete blood count, one can preliminarily determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial, deciding whether antibiotics are needed for treatment. Lower respiratory tract infections, on the other hand, are often caused by conditions such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which are mostly bacterial infections requiring targeted antibiotic treatment. For patients who are physically weaker, immunocompromised, or elderly and frail, there may also be a possibility of fungal co-infection, necessitating the use of antifungal medications for treatment.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu

Pulmonology

1min 11sec

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How is an upper respiratory tract infection caused?

Upper respiratory infections are mostly caused by pathogenic microorganisms. They are related to factors such as exposure to cold weather, low immunity, weak resistance, frequent staying up late, and excessive fatigue. Additionally, viral infections, such as influenza virus, adenovirus, rhinovirus, and Coxsackievirus, can also cause upper respiratory infections. Some may be due to bacterial infections. Therefore, it is recommended that everyone should actively seek symptom-targeted treatment under the guidance of a doctor, and it's important to identify the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan based on test results. Key to the treatment is the active cooperation of the patient with the doctor's plan. In terms of diet, it is advised to eat light foods, drink plenty of water, rest adequately, and avoid spicy, greasy, raw, cold, and irritating foods. Smoking and drinking alcohol should also be avoided while actively cooperating with the treatment.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu

Pulmonology

1min 24sec

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How is an upper respiratory infection caused?

Upper respiratory tract infections are generally caused by pathogens such as viruses, fungi, and parasites that invade the patient's throat, causing acute inflammation. Viruses are the most common infectious agents, including rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, influenza viruses, and others, which can cause these symptoms. In some cases, bacterial infections are the cause, often due to exposure to cold weather, sudden drops in temperature, or excessive fatigue, leading to rapid reproduction of viruses or bacteria and triggering the illness. It is advised that everyone actively seek symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a doctor. The main treatment should include rest and drinking plenty of water. Antiviral medicines may be used, such as antiviral oral solutions, heat-clearing and detoxifying oral solutions, or Scutellaria baicalensis oral solutions. If antibiotic treatment is necessary, anti-inflammatory drugs like erythromycin or penicillin may be used. (Note: The above medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)