In the spring, due to sudden changes in weather conditions, we observe an increase in infections, such as the common cold and other viral or bacterial infections, which may affect to a small extent the daily life of those who are ill. “However, there are cases where antibiotics are needed, as well as strict rest and good nutrition to prevent recurrence,” says Ms. Chrysoula Liarou Director Pathologist at Metropolitan Hospital.

Respiratory infections

Respiratory infections are one of the most widespread categories of diseases affecting or even threatening the health of hundreds of millions of people annually. “If you experience symptoms such as runny nose, cough, sore throat or fever, there is a good chance that you have contracted a respiratory infection. These infections include a wide range of illnesses, from the common cold to pneumonia, and despite significant progress in their treatment in recent decades, resistance and mutation of microorganisms to antibiotics is a growing problem. The uncontrolled use of antibiotics, in fact, has led to the appearance of new pathogens and mutations. It is now universally accepted, that receiving arbitrary treatment with antibiotics does not lead to the desired results, as the resistance of microorganisms increases”, says the expert.

Categories of respiratory infections

Respiratory infections fall into two main categories:

Upper respiratory infections

These infections are usually caused by viruses, affect the pharynx, larynx, tonsils and are called pharyngitis, laryngitis and tonsillitis. Other common examples include influenza, sinusitis and otitis. Infectious mononucleosis also falls into this category.

Lower respiratory tract infections

These infections affect the lungs and trachea. They are more serious and usually caused by microbes, but also by viruses, which is why hospitalization is often required. Examples of these infections include pneumonia, tracheitisthe tracheobronchitisbronchitis (both acute and chronic), as well as its exacerbation chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD).

Causes of occurrence of these infections

The agents that cause infections belong to the following groups of microorganisms:

• Viruses
• Germs
• Fungi
• Parasites

What symptoms does the patient have?

“Symptoms vary depending on the cause of the infection and the individual’s condition, such as age and the presence of other medical conditions.
For example, the common cold it initially causes a feeling of dryness in the mouth and nose, followed by a runny nose, hyperemia of the eyes, coughing and sneezing, while there is usually no fever.

THE fluon the other hand, causes high fever, intense fatigue, bone, joint and muscle pain, with a common complication of pneumonia.

The lower respiratory tract infectionssuch as tracheobronchitis and pneumonia, mainly cause collapse, fever, headache, myalgias and cough, while many times they attack the pharynx and larynx at the same time, causing corresponding symptoms”, explains Mrs. Liarou.

How is the diagnosis made?

“It is very important to make a correct diagnosis of the infection, as this will determine the appropriate treatment. Beyond the symptoms, the patient’s general condition can provide important clues. For example, severe fatigue, lack of appetite, or decreased activity may indicate a bacterial lower respiratory infection. Accordingly, maintenance of activity and interest in food is usually indicative of viral infection, even if the patient presents with a high fever.

Disease progression also plays a critical role, as a sudden worsening of symptoms may indicate a microbial infection. Accordingly, if a family member falls ill at the same time or there are incidents of infection in the workplace, it is likely to be a viral infection.

In some cases, simple laboratory tests, such as a complete blood count, can provide useful information. For example, the presence of an increased number of white blood cells, mainly polymorphonuclear, may indicate a microbial infection. In addition, the chest x-ray and the clinical examination by the doctor are important tools for diagnosis,” he points out.

Treatment of infections

“The main goal of anti-infective treatment is primarily to relieve symptoms while the immune system fights the infection. The first and most important condition is rest. In viral respiratory infections, there is usually no fixed treatment and the patient often recovers on his own after a few days.

The most useful remedies that the doctor recommends in these cases are:

• Administration of antipyretics to reduce high fever and relieve aches and headaches.
• Consuming large amounts of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially in cases of fever.
• Stop smoking, as upper respiratory infections and lung diseases are more frequent and more severe in patients who smoke.”

What can we do to prevent respiratory infections?

An important issue concerning respiratory infections is the area of ​​prevention. It is difficult to prevent an infection because of the large number of viruses that can cause it and the fact that many of them circulate freely in the environment. However, there are recommendations that can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus that causes the infection.

“Initially, Mrs. Liarou emphasizes, “attention and diligent observance of hygiene rules is required. In case of upper respiratory tract infections, it is important to avoid very close contact with other people and of course physical contact. Hands should be washed frequently with soap and water, as many viruses are transmitted even by shaking hands. Patients should not share the same hygiene items (such as towels) or household utensils with other people. Children with upper respiratory infections should not share their toys with other children and clearly wash toys after use.

Finally, a proper diet with fresh fruits and vegetables and regular exercise have beneficial effects. Research has shown that people who exercise five or more days a week have a reduced risk of developing upper respiratory infections, compared to those who do not exercise or exercise less. Even if they do get sick, the symptoms are probably less severe compared to those who exercise less,” he concludes.