Respiratory infection
Respiratory infection refers to a variety of infectious diseases that affect the respiratory system. These infections can be caused by a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and can affect any part of the respiratory system, from the nasal and sinus passages to the lungs.
Types of Respiratory Infections[edit | edit source]
There are several types of respiratory infections, which can be broadly categorized into upper and lower respiratory tract infections.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections[edit | edit source]
Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) affect the nose, sinuses, and throat. Common types of URTIs include:
- Common cold: A viral infection that primarily affects the nose.
- Sinusitis: An inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses.
- Tonsillitis: An infection of the tonsils caused by either a virus or bacteria.
- Laryngitis: An inflammation of the voice box from overuse, irritation, or infection.
Lower Respiratory Tract Infections[edit | edit source]
Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) affect the airways and lungs. Common types of LRTIs include:
- Bronchitis: An inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs.
- Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid.
- Tuberculosis: A serious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs.
- Pulmonary abscess: A pus-filled cavity in the lung.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Respiratory infections can be caused by a variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The specific cause often depends on the type of infection and the individual's overall health and immune status.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of respiratory infections can vary widely, but often include cough, shortness of breath, and fever. Other symptoms can include sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for respiratory infections depends on the specific type of infection and the severity of symptoms. It may include rest, fluids, over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms, and in some cases, antibiotics or antiviral medications.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention strategies for respiratory infections include good hand hygiene, vaccination, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD