Diseases of the upper respiratory tract symptoms treatment. Airway inflammation treatment. Clinical picture of occupational diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Diseases of the upper respiratory tract are a group of diseases of an inflammatory and non-inflammatory nature. These include common cold and tonsillitis, diseases of the larynx and trachea, paranasal sinuses.

Pathology of the upper respiratory tract of infectious etiology affects every fourth person on Earth. The climate of Russia predisposes to massive outbreaks of these diseases from September to April.

Currently, medicine has studied up to 300 microorganisms that can cause diseases of the upper respiratory tract. In addition, working in hazardous industries and constantly inhaling irritating chemicals can cause chronic inflammation of the nose, pharynx, and larynx. Allergies and a decrease in the immune forces of the body can also provoke the appearance of diseases of the upper respiratory tract.

The most common diseases of the upper respiratory tract

  1. Anosmia is a disease that is based on disorders of smell. Such a pathology can be observed with congenital defects, genetic anomalies, or after traumatic damage to the nasal septum.
  2. Runny nose or rhinitis - inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Occurs as a defensive response to the introduction of bacteria, viruses or agents of allergic origin into it. It is often the first clinical sign of various infections: measles, influenza, scarlet fever, as well as severe hypothermia.
    At the initial stage, rhinitis is characterized by a feeling of congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa, then profuse discharge and nasality appear. Subsequently, the discharge becomes thick, mucous or purulent and decreases.
    Chronic runny nose is manifested by constant congestion, decreased sense of smell and scant discharge from the nose.
  3. Sinusitis refers to acute respiratory infections, most often a complication after a viral illness such as influenza, scarlet fever, measles. The disease is manifested by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Symptoms are expressed in an increase in body temperature, severe congestion on the affected side, headaches and copious discharge from the nose. The chronic form of the disease is characterized by an erased course.
  4. Adenoiditis - inflammation of the nasal tonsil, due to melting and changes in the composition of its tissue. The disease manifests itself in childhood, most often from 3 to 11 years. A striking sign of the disease is difficulty in breathing and sleep disturbances in children; hearing loss, a change in the timbre of the voice, and headaches can also be observed.
  5. Tonsillitis - swelling and hyperemia of the pharyngeal tonsils. Their inflammation can develop as a result of a viral or bacterial attack. The disease is characterized by: high fever, difficulty and pain when swallowing, symptoms of intoxication. Chronic tonsillitis is dangerous because the pathological toxins released during inflammation of the tonsils have a detrimental effect on the heart muscle, disrupting its work.
  6. A pharyngeal abscess develops as a result of the accumulation of pus in the submucosal pharynx. This acute disease is manifested by a sharp rise in temperature and severe pain when swallowing.
  7. Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the throat. Caused by both infectious agents and prolonged inhalation or ingestion of irritating chemicals. Pharyngitis is characterized by dry cough, soreness and soreness in the throat.
  8. Laryngitis is a process that develops in the larynx. Inflammation is caused by microorganisms, environmental influences, hypothermia. The disease is manifested by dryness in the throat, hoarseness, at first dry and then wet cough.
  9. Tumor processes develop in all parts of the upper respiratory tract. Signs of neoplasms are constant pain on the side of the lesion, bleeding and general asthenic manifestations.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of diseases of the upper respiratory tract begins with an examination of the patient. The doctor pays attention to reddening of the skin under the nose, difficulty in breathing, episodes of sneezing, coughing, and lacrimation. Examining the pharynx, the doctor can see pronounced redness and swelling of the mucous membranes.

To determine the type of pathogen that caused the development of the disease, bacteriological tests are used, swabs are taken from the throat and nose. To determine the severity of the inflammatory process and the response of the immune system to it, general blood and urine tests are examined.

Treatment

With competent and timely therapy, inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract pass without a trace. Having identified the causative agent of the infection, the doctor prescribes a course of antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal agents. A good effect is the use of topical preparations, sprays for irrigating the nose and pharynx and solutions for rinsing and lubricating the throat. With severe nasal congestion, vasoconstrictor drops are prescribed, at a temperature - antipyretics.

Throat abscesses require surgical intervention - opening the abscess, this procedure is carried out strictly in a hospital. Allergic manifestations require the use of antihistamine and hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs.

In the chronic course of the disease, vitamin and phytotherapy is additionally carried out. Popular methods of treating diseases of the nasopharynx and throat are physiotherapy: VHF, quartz, electrophoresis. At home, inhalations with a nebulizer or warm steam, foot baths with mustard are good.

Treatment of tumors requires a complex impact, using surgical techniques and chemotherapy.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of acute respiratory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, it is necessary to observe safety measures at the height of the infection: avoid crowded places, carefully follow the rules of personal hygiene, use a gauze bandage.

Patients suffering from chronic diseases of the nose, throat and pharynx must undergo a dispensary examination and a course of necessary therapy at least once a year.

An important role in maintaining the health and immunity of the respiratory system is played by maintaining a healthy lifestyle (physical activity, walking, outdoor recreation) and giving up bad habits (smoking, alcohol)

Article outline

Description

The respiratory system is the interconnected organs of the human body, providing the inhalation of oxygen, blood gas exchange, and the release of carbon dioxide. The human respiratory system consists of:

  • upper respiratory tract;
  • lower respiratory tract;
  • Lungs.

The respiratory system begins to function at the moment of birth, and ends its functioning after the death of a person. The work of the presented system is to perform the following functions:

  • Thermoregulation of the human body;
  • The ability to talk;
  • The ability to distinguish odors;
  • Carries out humidification of the air that a person inhales;
  • Takes part in lipid and salt metabolism.

In addition, the clarity of the structure of the respiratory system performs an important function in the immune system, providing additional protection of the human body from the environment. There are several types of breathing, such as:

  • Thoracic, which is most often present in the female;
  • Abdominal, which is most often present in the male.

The upper respiratory tract is located in the human head and consists of the following main elements:

  • nose;
  • Parts of the oral cavity;
  • oral pharynx;
  • Nasal pharynx.

At the moment of inhalation, the air first of all appears in the nose, it is in it that the first stage of its purification takes place, which takes place with the help of hairs. The network, consisting of the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa, performs the warming of the air that is inhaled by the person.

Droplets of mucus in a person's nose perform a moisturizing effect. In this way, the air is prepared for the conditions that prevail in the human lungs.

After that, the air passes to the pharyngeal cavity, which in turn is divided into several sections. Moreover, it is in this place that the paths of the respiratory system and the esophagus intersect. The air that a person inhales passes through the pharynx to the lower respiratory tract.

At the moment, there are a huge number of diseases of the respiratory system of the human body, and each of them in one way or another causes some discomfort to the patient, thereby complicating his life.

Some of the most common symptoms of a respiratory disease are, for example, a runny nose and cough, and some symptoms can even be fatal. The functioning of the respiratory system must necessarily be stable, because a deviation from the norm can lead to clinical death, as well as irreversible changes in the human brain.

As a rule, such well-known diseases as:

  • Pharyngitis;
  • Angina;
  • Tonsillitis;
  • Acute respiratory disease;
  • tracheitis;
  • acute respiratory viral disease;
  • sinusitis;
  • rhinitis;
  • laryngitis.

Symptoms

One of the most common diseases of the upper respiratory tract is considered acute symptoms of inflammation. The presented disease has many names, such as acute respiratory or respiratory viral disease. Most often, inflammation of the respiratory tract occurs for the following reasons:

  • influenza virus;
  • rhinoviruses;
  • enteroviruses;
  • streptococcus;
  • mycoplasma;
  • meningococcus;
  • severe hypothermia of the human body;
  • colds.

Usually, inflammation of the upper respiratory tract is manifested by symptoms that are caused by the penetration of a virus that causes intoxication of the whole organism as a whole. What are the symptoms of this disease?

So, the main symptoms of the upper respiratory tract:

  • Strong headache;
  • Bad sleep;
  • High temperature;
  • Prostration;
  • Pain in the muscles;
  • poor appetite;
  • Vomiting;
  • convulsions;
  • Difficulty breathing;
  • Pain when eating;
  • The whole body hurts;
  • dry throat;
  • Sore throat;
  • The appearance of hoarseness;
  • Enlarged lymph nodes;
  • The appearance of white spots on the tonsils;
  • Fever;
  • Body temperature can reach 39⁰С;
  • Brief loss of consciousness;
  • Weakened reaction;
  • Increased or vice versa reduced activity.

For example, rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, in which there is a severe runny nose, difficult breathing, and frequent sneezing. Pharyngitis is called inflammation of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, and there are acute and chronic forms of the disease.

With pharyngitis, some perspiration and pain are noticed when eating food. It is called laryngitis, which can pass to the vocal cords, and is accompanied by hoarseness, as well as a barking cough.

Tonsillitis refers to an infectious disease that manifests itself in acute inflammation of the lymphadenoid rings of the pharynx, usually the tonsils. With this disease, there is an increase in the tonsils, redness of the mucous membranes and pain when eating. Tracheitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the trachea, in which there is a dry cough and heaviness in the chest.

Treatment

Inflammation of the respiratory tract is not one of the most serious diseases, therefore, treatment is not something very complicated. What is the treatment for airway inflammation? When treating laryngitis, doctors recommend less strain on the vocal cords. The most important thing in the treatment of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis is the exclusion from your diet of food that can irritate the throat.

That is, get rid of sour, salty, hot, cold and spicy foods. It is also contraindicated to drink alcoholic beverages and smoke, as tobacco smoke and alcohol also lead to irritation of the mucous membranes.

With inflammation of the throat, you need to consume a large amount of liquid, and the ideal option would be to use vitamin drinks, such as rosehip decoctions or berry fruit drinks.

Antipyretic drugs are used to lower body levels. As a rule, the doctor prescribes drugs that include interferon and lysozyme, as well as mineral-vitamin complexes.

Naturally, if the disease has a bacterial form, then the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, but taking them at your own discretion is strictly contraindicated, since you can incorrectly analyze the symptoms that have arisen and decide on the treatment.

Treatment of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis with antibiotics is necessary only in acute forms, and in chronic pharyngitis, the use of antibiotics is generally mandatory to prevent the occurrence of various complications of the disease.

Incorrect or inadequate treatment of the acute form of the disease, inflammation of the respiratory tract can progress to chronic forms. And pay attention to the fact that the chronic form has less pronounced symptoms than the acute form.

Therefore, with this form of the disease, they do not look much at the symptoms, but treat the disease itself, thereby muffling the symptoms. Since bacterial pharyngitis can become chronic, we will also consider its methods of treatment.

Treatment of chronic forms of inflammation of the respiratory tract is quite lengthy, as it includes not only the elimination of foci of infections, but also the simultaneous treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system disorders, and many others.

As a rule, the hypertrophic form of a chronic disease is treated by cauterization of the lymphoid tissue, with the help of electric current or cold. And the treatment of the atrophic form of the disease is to increase the secretion of mucus and reduce the level of dryness of the throat, as well as to stimulate the regenerative processes of the mucous membranes.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of the presented disease, you need to use the following methods of prevention:

  • Harden the body;
  • Give up bad habits such as alcohol abuse and smoking.
  • Restore disturbed nasal breathing;
  • Strengthen immunity.
  • Do not buy various cough drops as it is a waste of money. They cannot cure the throat, but only ease the discomfort.
  • No need to rely only on gargling. In addition, inflammation of the mucous membranes with pharyngitis in a chronic form cannot be treated at all by rinsing with a soda solution, as this greatly dries out and complicates the treatment of the disease.
  • No need to use nose drops very often. Frequent use of nasal drops can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat as the drops run from the nose down the throat.

-k

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The ability of a person to breathe is one of the most important criteria on which our life and health directly depend. This skill, we get from birth, everyone's life begins with a sigh. As for the organs that allow us to breathe, they make up a whole system, the basis of which, of course, are the lungs, however, inhalation begins elsewhere. One of the most important components of the respiratory system are, which we will discuss in more detail. But the biggest problem in this part of our body is and will be diseases of the upper respiratory tract, which, unfortunately, are not so rare.

Article outline

What are the upper respiratory tract?

The upper respiratory tract is a specific part of the body, which includes some organs, or rather, their totality. Thus, this includes:

  • nasal cavity;
  • Oral cavity;

These four elements occupy the most important place in the functioning of our body, because it is with the help of the nose or mouth that we inhale, fill our lungs with oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide through the same two holes.

As for the pharynx, its oral and nasal parts are directly connected with the nose and mouth itself. In these departments, vital channels flow through which flows of inhaled air rush into the trachea, and then into the lungs. In the nasopharynx, such channels are called choanae, and as for the oropharynx, then such a part as the pharynx comes into play, which also takes an active part in the respiratory process.

If we talk about the auxiliary functions of the upper respiratory tract, relating to all the same breathing, then getting into the nasal cavity, and then the nasopharynx, the air is warmed to the optimum temperature, moistened, cleaned of excess dust and all kinds of harmful microorganisms. All these actions are carried out thanks to the capillaries located in the section under discussion and the special structure of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. After going through this complex process, the air takes on suitable indicators in order to go to the lungs.

Diseases of the upper respiratory tract

As mentioned earlier, diseases of the upper respiratory tract are not uncommon. We are more often, and the throat and pharynx become the most vulnerable place for all sorts of infections and viral ailments. Such features are due to the fact that in this compartment of the throat there are accumulations of lymphoid tissue, called tonsils. The palatine tonsils, which are a paired formation located on the upper wall of the pharynx, belong to the structure of the upper respiratory tract, being the largest accumulation of lymph. It is in the palatine tonsils that processes that contribute to the development of diseases most often occur, since the lymphoid ring as a whole represents a kind of human shield against all kinds of infections.

Thus, viral, bacterial and fungal infections, entering the human body, first of all attack the tonsils, and if the immune system at these moments is in a vulnerable (weakened) state, the person becomes ill. Among the most common diseases affecting the upper respiratory tract are the following:

  • (also called acute tonsillitis);
  • Chronic tonsillitis;
  • Bronchitis;
  • Laryngitis.

The ailments listed above are far from the only diseases that attack the upper respiratory tract. This list contains only those ailments that the average person suffers from most often, and in most cases their treatment can be done either independently at home, based on some symptoms, or with the help of a doctor.

Angina symptoms and treatment

Each of us quite often met with the name of this disease or suffered from it himself. This ailment is one of the most common, has the most pronounced symptoms, and its treatment is known to the vast majority. However, it is impossible not to talk about it, so perhaps we should start with the symptoms. With angina, the following symptoms are almost always present:

  • A sharp increase in temperature to 38-39 degrees of the mercury column of the thermometer;
  • Pain in the throat, first when swallowing, and then of a permanent nature;
  • The throat in the region of the palatine tonsils is strongly reddened, the tonsils are swollen and edematous;
  • The cervical lymph nodes are enlarged, and on palpation their soreness is felt;
  • The person is very chilly, there is severe fatigue, lethargy and a state of weakness;
  • Headaches and aching joints are often observed.

Characteristic features for angina are the appearance of three or four of the above symptoms at once. At the same time, in the evening you could go to bed as an absolutely healthy person, and in the morning find 3-4 symptoms, led by a strong temperature.

Speaking about the treatment of angina, whether you see a doctor or not, it will be approximately the same. In most cases, a course of antibiotics is prescribed in order to hit the very cause of the disease and kill the infection that has entered the body. In combination with antibiotics, antihistamines, fever-lowering drugs that relieve swelling and pain are also prescribed. Doctors also recommend observing strict bed rest, drinking as much warm liquid as possible in order to restore water balance and relieve intoxication, as well as gargle 4-6 times a day.

Also, touching on the treatment, it is worth saying that it is still worth going to the doctor so that the specialist will recommend you strictly defined antibiotics. Thus, you reduce the risk of aggravation of the disease and damage to the body. As for angina in children, in this case, calling a doctor at home is a mandatory event, since for children this ailment can be extremely dangerous, even fatal.

Pharyngitis

This ailment is much less dangerous compared to a sore throat, however, it can also cause a lot of trouble and definitely will not make your life easier. This disease is characterized by the fact that it also has a direct effect on the upper respiratory tract, and its symptoms are in some ways similar to angina, but much less pronounced. So, affecting the symptoms of pharyngitis, the following are distinguished:

  • Pain in the throat when swallowing;
  • In the region of the pharynx, perspiration and drying of the mucosa are felt;
  • There is some increase in temperature, but rarely above 38 degrees thermometer;
  • The palatine tonsil and nasopharyngeal mucosa are inflamed;
  • In especially severe and advanced cases, purulent formations may appear on the back of the pharynx.

Diagnosing rhinitis is somewhat more difficult than angina, since the symptoms of this disease are less pronounced. However, as soon as you feel pain in your throat when swallowing, notice even a slight increase in temperature or general malaise, you should consult a doctor.

Speaking about the treatment of this disease, it will be less severe than with angina, if only for the simple reason that you are unlikely to have to take antibiotics. With pharyngitis, it is necessary to completely exclude the inhalation of cold air, smoking (both passive and active), the intake of irritating mucous foods, that is, the exclusion from the diet of spicy, sour, salty, and so on.

The next step will be methodical rinsing of the eagle with special pharmaceutical preparations, or infusions of medicinal herbs such as sage, chamomile or calendula. Another great rinse method is to mix a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water, and add a few drops of iodine. Such treatment helps to relieve pain, relieve perspiration, inflammation, as well as disinfection of the upper respiratory tract and prevent the formation of purulent deposits. It will also be useful to take antibacterial drugs, however, it is better to consult a specialist about this.

Chronic tonsillitis

This ailment falls well under the definition - chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract. It is very easy to catch chronic tonsillitis, it is enough just not to cure a sore throat or start it to a chronic state.

In chronic tonsillitis, purulent deposits in the palatine tonsils are characteristic. In this case, the pus is most often clogged, and it becomes quite difficult to get rid of it. Very often, a person may not even suspect that he has this disease, but there are still diagnostic methods. The symptoms of chronic tonsillitis are as follows:

  • Bad breath due to the presence of pus;
  • Frequent sore throats;
  • Constant perspiration, soreness, dryness in the throat;
  • In moments of exacerbation, a cough or even fever may appear.

If we talk about the treatment of this disease, then it is fundamentally different from measures to get rid of angina. In chronic tonsillitis, it is necessary to undergo a course of special treatment, in which repeated washings of the palatine tonsils are carried out in the otolaryngologist's office in order to get rid of pus. Then, after each washing, ultrasonic heating follows, and all this is accompanied by home rinsing procedures for the eagle, exactly the same as for pharyngitis. Only such a methodical and rather lengthy treatment can bear fruit. Unpleasant symptoms will go away, and you can get rid of this unpleasant disease forever.

Conclusion

Taking into account all of the above, we can say that the problems associated with diseases of the upper respiratory tract, although they are a fairly common problem for all mankind, their treatment is quite feasible. The main thing in this matter is to detect the symptoms of the disease in time, to be able to compare them and immediately consult a doctor so that an experienced specialist can prescribe you a treatment that matches the etiology of your disease.

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The respiratory organs together are a system capable of providing the body with oxygen-saturated air, with the subsequent removal of part of it, together with waste substances in the form of carbohydrate dioxide, back into the environment. Getting from the atmosphere, air, under the influence of the work of the lungs, moving along the cavity of the nasopharynx and throat, enters the trachea, where it is further distributed along all branches, and completes its movement in the alveoli.

The first respiratory organs through which atmospheric air begins its journey are the nasopharynx, trachea and bronchi. The trachea is a branching, figuratively resembling a tree with a crown of branches. The component of the organ is fibroelastic tissue and a chain of rings, which in the anterior part of the organ have a cartilaginous annular base, and in the posterior part are adjacent to the esophagus.

The bronchi are similar in structure to the trachea. Flexible and soft, they consist of many fibers that are placed on the walls of the organ. Further, branching, the bronchus segments pass into bronchioles, an organ similar in general structure to the previous one, but not containing cartilage. They, like the bronchi, have walls of fibers, but at the same time they lack mucus-producing cells.

Alveoli are thin-walled sacs whose task is to ensure the process of gas exchange. Thanks to them, oxygen enters the blood and, at the end of the cycle, is excreted from the body in the form of carbohydrate dioxide. In their structure, the alveoli resemble a large bunch of grapes, their task is to ensure gas exchange in both directions.

What diseases affect the upper respiratory tract?

Diseases that affect the upper respiratory tract are divided into acute and chronic forms. In most cases, the microorganisms that provoke the disease are transmitted by airborne droplets, and this happens more often during the season of sharp climatic changes. Getting into the respiratory tract, infections are fixed on the mucosal areas, affect their soft tissues and provoke the development of inflammatory processes, with subsequent intensification.

  • Rhinitis. The disease is characterized by the presence of foci of inflammation located on the mucous membrane of the nasal canals. Rhinitis is both one of the symptoms of colds and other diseases, and an independent disease.
  • Sinusitis. It manifests itself in the form of complications after the transferred infectious diseases.
  • Adenoids. Refers to a variety of pathological changes occurring against the background of hyperplasia, modifying the tissues of the nasopharyngeal tonsils.
  • Tonsillitis. A form of pathology that occurs during inflammatory processes of the palatine tonsil.
  • Acute tonsillitis (tonsillitis). The forms differ in 4 varieties: follicular, phlegmous, catarrhal, lacunae.
  • Pharyngitis. Pathological changes with characteristic inflammatory processes on the pharyngeal mucosa.
  • Laryngitis. Inflammatory processes affect the larynx, both partially and completely.

Acute

Acute diseases of the upper respiratory tract include those in which other symptoms are observed against the background of organ damage: manifestations of pain, fever, cough. Acute lesions of the upper respiratory tract are divided into 3 main degrees of severity:

  • Lungs. There are difficulties with nasal breathing, scratching in the throat, perspiration, slight cough, burning, hoarseness of voice. There is hyperemia in the areas of the mucous membrane of the posterior wall of the nasopharynx, on the membrane of the oral cavity, trachea, and larynx.
  • Average degree. Hyperemia and other changes are more noticeable: on the membranes of the respiratory tract there are areas where burn necrotic processes are present, in which mucopurulent discharges are observed. The processes of excretion can be delayed for a significant period, while catarrhal inflammations can be observed in the areas of the nasopharynx, oral cavity and lower membranes of the respiratory tract.
  • High degree. There is a spasm of the throat against the background of a reflex reaction with a visible difficulty in breathing, accompanied by whistling, wheezing. In some cases, airway asphyxia can lead to immediate death. Combinations of simultaneous damage to the respiratory and visual organs are possible, which most often occur due to exposure to toxic substances.

Chronic

Problems that affect the functionality of the respiratory system can vary. The presence of allergens, professional activities near exposure to chemicals, polluted or excessively dry air, these are just some of the main reasons that provoke malfunctions. The danger of chronic diseases is the negative consequences that occur against the background of complications. Chronic diseases of the lung structures and respiratory tract include:

  • Obstructive pulmonary disease.
  • Pulmonary hypertension and other occupational respiratory diseases.
  • Chronic form of bronchitis.
  • Respiratory Allergy.
  • Chronic tonsillitis.

Causes and symptoms of the most common diseases

Infectious diseases are more likely to affect the respiratory tract than the common cold. Pathogens that can cause respiratory damage are divided into several groups:

  • Fungal infections. Representatives of this group are actinomycetes, fungi of the Candida family, aspergillus.
  • Viruses. The cause of infection can be the influenza virus, rhinoviruses, herpovirus, measles virus, rotavirus, enterovirus infections and others.
  • bacteria. Whooping cough, pneumococcus, meningococcus, mycobacteria, diphtheria pathogen and other bacteria.

The cause of the manifestation of colds are freezing, drinking cold drinks, a sharp change in weather conditions, weak immunity and others. The symptoms by which the category of the disease is determined may differ, but, in general, they are similar:

  • The presence of an inflammatory process.
  • Bad dream.
  • Pain when swallowing and talking.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Enlarged lymph nodes.
  • Fever.
  • The presence of white spots on the tonsils.
  • Wheezing when breathing and talking.
  • Brief loss of consciousness.

Regardless of the form of the disease and its causative agent, for almost all one of the main symptoms is the presence of inflammatory processes.

ARI and SARS

About 200 viruses can provoke infection with acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections, and the most famous is the influenza virus, which is dangerous primarily because it can mutate (swine flu, bird flu) and manifest itself in new varieties. Other causative agents of the disease are less known, but are also capable of provoking infection and infecting the body in a short period of time:

  • Metapneumovirus.
  • Respiratory syncytial.
  • Parainfluenza.
  • Adenovirus.
  • Bokaruvirus.
  • Rhinovirus.
  • Coronavirus.

The listed types of infections are far from all, but the symptoms of their manifestation are practically not much different:

  • Respiratory damage.
  • Headache.
  • Chills, fever.
  • Pain in muscles and joints.
  • Increased body temperature.
  • Enlarged lymph nodes.

There may also be swelling in the mucosal areas, difficulty in speaking and swallowing, wheezing or whistling when breathing. Especially dangerous are atypical types of diseases, the development of which occurs asymptomatically, in such cases it is especially important to consult a specialist who will help find out the cause and prescribe the right treatment.

Flu

Influenza refers to acute infectious diseases, which is transmitted in three main ways: by transmission of infection through household items (violation of hygiene rules), airborne droplets and airborne dust infection. The main reason for the spread of the disease is a short incubation period of development (from 3 to 12 hours) and a constant mutation of the infection, which is a factor complicating treatment.

The initial stage in the development of the disease is the external modification of the patient: it resembles a person who has been crying for a long time: an unhealthy shine appears in the eyes, the face becomes puffy, there is a noticeable swelling, redness of the skin is observed. Further, the symptomatology has a classic version of the previously described infectious diseases:

  • There is a lesion of the respiratory tract in the form of pain, difficulty in swallowing and talking.
  • Headache and muscle pain.
  • High body temperature (up to 40 0 ​​C).
  • Chills, fever.
  • Insomnia.
  • Photophobia.

The danger of influenza is a possible manifestation in the form of complications, which, under the influence of a microbial infection, can provoke various pathological changes.

  • Pulmonary edema
  • Brain dysfunction.
  • development of meningitis.
  • Myocarditis.
  • Neurological diseases and other lesions of internal organs.

Angina

The main causative agents of angina are staphylococci and streptococci, microorganisms that are present on human skin and in the environment. Also, fungi and viruses can become the cause of the disease, but this happens less often and this happens in most cases due to a weakened immune system.

The unhindered penetration of microorganisms, their settlement in the areas of the mucosa and reproduction, cause the appearance of inflammatory processes and further damage to the respiratory system. Symptoms of the disease may differ depending on the type of angina:

  • Herpetic. This type of angina is most often observed in children. The disease develops rapidly with the appearance of sore throat and a sharp increase in body temperature. With additional diagnosis in the areas of the mucous throat and tonsils, a rash of red vesicles is observed, which in their appearance resembles a type of herpes.
  • Catarrhal. The disease is characterized by rapid development: itching and sore throat appear, severe pain is felt when swallowing. There is an increase in temperature, there is a noticeable redness in the throat, there is a strong dryness in the mouth.
  • fibrinous. Almost in the first phase of development, a white coating appears on the tonsils, with a possible advance to areas of the palate and pharynx. The body temperature can exceed 40 0 ​​C, the patient feels severe chills, he has a fever, possible manifestations of diarrhea and nausea. Of particular danger are respiratory failures and short-term memory loss.
  • Lacunar. Almost the same thing, as in the case of follicular angina, with the difference that the disease develops and proceeds in a more complicated form.
  • Follicular. Initially, the disease manifests itself in an increase in body temperature (up to 39 0 C). There is a noticeable soreness in the throat, which is simultaneously transmitted in the form of shootings to the hearing organs during swallowing. There are swelling of the throat mucosa, foci of redness and yellow-white plaque are visible.

Rhinitis

The cause of the development of rhinitis is a type of infection, when it enters, malfunctions in the respiratory system occur. Other types of infections can also become possible provocateurs of the disease: diphtheria, measles, HIV infection, gonorrhea, influenza.

The main factors that can cause the appearance of non-infectious rhinitis are the influence of external weather conditions and impaired immunity.

Symptoms, regardless of what exactly caused acute rhinitis, are divided into three stages of the development of the disease:

  • First. The appearance of burning and tickling in the nose, it is felt that the nasal passages are overdried.
  • Second. There is abundant observation of liquid secretions, congestion is felt, the nose stops breathing.
  • Discharge from the nose becomes viscous, often purulent, with an unpleasant musty odor.

sinusitis

Sinusitis is a disease in which inflammatory processes affect the membranes of the sinuses (sinus appendages). The development of the disease can be one of the types of complications after an infectious disease. The symptoms of sinusitis resemble other infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, but the heaviest in the head, pain, copious discharge from the nose, congestion are most felt. Occasionally, there may be an increased body temperature.

The main reasons for the development of the disease can be allergies, hypothermia, infection, fungus, pathological changes in the area of ​​​​the nasal septum.

Adenoids

Adenoids are located in such a way as to act as a barrier against viruses and harmful microorganisms entering the body. In addition, the body is a kind of temperature regulator that protects other respiratory organs from cold air entering their areas.

The disease can provoke both one of the infections, which are especially numerous when climatic conditions change, and ordinary hypothermia. Initially, there is difficulty with inhaling air through the nose, the presence of snoring in a dream, and general symptoms of an infectious lesion appear. Late stages of the disease can be reflected in the form of complications on the hearing organs and the appearance of changes in the functioning of the vocal cords.

Treatment of infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Diseases of the upper tract can provoke the development of various complications, especially if the cause of development is an infection. The main condition for the patient is the observance of bed rest and the implementation of all other procedures. In addition, the patient should increase the amount of liquid he drinks using warm drinks: tea with lemon, dried fruit compotes, juices and warm water.

General approaches to treatment

The disease of the respiratory tract is accompanied by the presence of inflammatory processes that can affect various parts of the organs. In this regard, experts advise to follow the general rules of treatment:

  • Exclude from the diet too hot dishes.
  • After clarifying the diagnosis, use the treatment regimen that was proposed by the specialist.
  • Use in combination with medications traditional medicine.

Experts identify a number of symptoms, the manifestation of which should immediately seek help from specialists:

  • Stably high body temperature (39 0 C-40 0 C), not amenable to knocking down with common antipyretic drugs.
  • Frequent fainting and cases of loss of consciousness.
  • Increasing headache and other pain that restricts movement.
  • The appearance of hemorrhages and rashes on the body.
  • Presence of prolonged (more than 5 days) fever.
  • The appearance of pain in the chest.
  • The presence of coughing blood clots and purulent discharge.
  • Stable deterioration of the process of inhalation and exhalation, lack of air.

Types of therapy

Treatment of the respiratory tract is carried out through a combination of various types of therapy:

  • Compliance with bed rest.
  • Increasing the amount of fluid you drink.
  • The use of folk remedies.
  • The use of medicinal substances in the complex.
  • Procedures that reduce the impact of symptoms (inhalations, compresses, rubbing, rinsing).

Both doctors and traditional healers advise, starting treatment at the very beginning of the development of diseases, it is best to combine several types of therapy in a complex way at the same time, so you can be cured most effectively and quickly. Among the most popular medicinal substances in the treatment of the respiratory tract, experts recommend the use of the following categories of drugs:

They are assigned only when there is an exact definition regarding the type of pathogen. Each antibacterial drug has its own range of effects, this is what is taken into account by a specialist when prescribing a treatment regimen.

Antibiotics for upper respiratory disease

The use of antibiotics as a broad-spectrum agent for the treatment of the respiratory tract has led many people to make their own decisions about the choice of drug category at the first symptoms of diseases. Not every type of drug can fully affect the microorganism that is the causative agent of the disease.

  • Penicillins. The most famous category of antibiotics, which has a relatively gentle effect on the body, but is not a strong healing substance: Amoxicillin.
  • Cephalosporins. Antibiotics are used only if other medicinal substances are not able to resist infection, they are prescribed for a complex form of pneumonia, or bronchitis: Aksetin, Zinacef, Zinnat.
  • Macrolides. The effects of the drugs are similar to the penicillin group, but not all patients tolerate them equally well. Appointed in the treatment of pneumonia: Azithromycin, Summamed, Hemomycin.
  • Fluoroquinolones. One of the most powerful category of drugs from the group of antibiotics used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Of the most famous and used in therapy are Moximac, Levofloxacin, Avelox.

Prevention

Since the main cause of respiratory diseases is low immunity, which is not able to resist the penetration of infections, the main preventive measures are the following procedures:

  • hardening. There are two types of procedures: air and water, both activities require systematic exercises throughout the year. Classes for beginners begin in a favorable climatic period of the year.
  • Organization of proper care of the premises, in the form of regular wet cleaning and ventilation.
  • Properly balanced diet.
  • Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.
  • Minimal contact with people who suffer from infectious diseases, especially at the time of mass diseases.
  • Organization of quarantine conditions for family members who have contracted the virus.

If you approach the matter correctly, you can reduce the risk of getting sick by half, or even more. Doctors advise not to neglect the general rules when it comes to personal health and to follow basic disease prevention measures.


Description:

Upper respiratory tract infection is an infection of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract from the nasal cavity to the tracheobronchial tree, with the exception of the terminal bronchioles and alveoli. Upper respiratory tract infections include viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoal infections.


Causes of occurrence:

In most cases, the defeat of the upper respiratory tract is of viral origin.
The etiological agents that cause damage to the upper respiratory tract are different. There is a close dependence of the role of pathogens on the variant of the course of the disease: in acute rhinosinusitis and exacerbation of chronic rhinosinusitis, streptococcus Streptococcus (Str.) pneumoniae (20–35%) and Haemophilus (H.) influenzae (untyped strains, 6–26%) are of primary importance. ). More severe cases of the disease are more often associated with Str. pneumoniae. Much less common causes of rhinosinusitis are Moraxella (M.) catarrhalis (and other Gram-negative bacilli, 0–24%), Str. pyogenes (1–3%; up to 20% in children), Staphylococcus (S.) aureus (0–8%), anaerobes (0–10%). The role of gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Proteus spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter) in acute sinusitis is minimal, but increases with nosocomial infection, as well as in people with immunosuppression (neutropenia, AIDS) and people who received repeated courses of antibiotic therapy. The causative agents of odontogenic (5-10% of all cases of sinusitis) maxillary sinusitis are: H. influenzae, rarely Str. pneumoniae, enterobacteria and non-spore-forming anaerobes.


Symptoms:

Upper respiratory infections can occur in the following clinical forms: sinusitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, tracheitis.

                              Viral nasopharyngitis.

The incubation period lasts 2-3 days. Symptoms of viral nasopharyngitis last up to 2 weeks. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, alternative diagnoses should be considered, such as allergies, or.

Nasal symptoms. At the onset of the disease, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and difficulty in nasal breathing occur. Clinically significant rhinorrhea is more characteristic of a viral infection. But with viral nasopharyngitis, within 2-3 days after the onset of symptoms, nasal discharge often becomes viscous, cloudy, white to yellow-green in color (activation of the saprophytic, normally non-pathogenic flora living on the mucous membrane). Thus, the color and transparency of the discharge cannot help to clearly differentiate between bacterial and viral infections.

From the side of the throat, there is pain and perspiration, soreness and difficulty in swallowing. Pain in the throat, as a rule, is already present in the first days of illness and lasts only a few days. When complaining of a sensation of a lump in the throat, attention should be paid to the back wall of the pharynx and tongue - they may be involved in the inflammatory process. Mouth breathing due to nasal congestion can lead to dry mouth, especially after sleeping.

The occurrence of a cough may indicate involvement in the process of the larynx, or as a result of irritation of the pharyngeal wall with secretions from the nose (post-nasal drip). usually develops on the fourth or fifth day after the onset of symptoms from the nose and throat.

Also, viral nasopharyngitis can be accompanied by symptoms such as:

      * Bad breath that   occurs as a result of excretion of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also be observed in allergic rhinitis.
      * - loss of smell secondary to inflammation in the nasal cavity.
      * . observed in most cases.
      * Sinus symptoms. They include nasal congestion, a feeling of fullness and fullness in the sinus region (usually symmetrical). Quite characteristic of viral nasopharyngitis.
      * Photophobia and    are characteristic of adenovirus and other viral infections. may be accompanied by pain in the depth of the orbit, soreness when moving the eyes, or conjunctivitis. Itchy, watery, "watery" eyes are more characteristic of allergic conditions.
      * Fever. There is usually little or no fever, but newborns and infants may have temperatures as high as 39.4°C (103°F). The fever usually lasts only a few days. With the flu, fever can be accompanied by a fever of up to 40°C (104°F) or more.
      * Gastrointestinal symptoms. , and diarrhea may accompany the flu, especially in children. Nausea and abdominal pain can be observed with viral acute respiratory infections and streptococcal infections.
      * Heavy . Severe muscle pain is typical of the flu, especially when there is a sudden onset of sore throat accompanied by fever, chills, cough, and headaches.
      * Fatigue and malaise. Any type of URTI can be accompanied by these symptoms. Complete loss of strength, exhaustion are characteristic of the flu.

                                          Bacterial

When collecting an anamnesis, it is almost impossible to make a differential diagnosis for viral and bacterial pharyngitis. If the symptoms do not improve within 10 days and gradually worsen after the first 5-7 days, it is quite possible to assume the bacterial nature of the disease. Group A hemolytic streptococcus deserves special attention as a causative agent. The presence in a personal history of an episode (especially with a clinic of carditis or a complicated defect), or household contact with a person who had a history of streptococcal infection, significantly increases the patient's risk of developing acute or recurrent rheumatic fever. Suspicion of infection with group A streptococcus confirms the presence of prolonged fever, as well as the absence of cough, rhinorrhea and conjunctivitis, more characteristic of. Bacterial pharyngitis is characterized by a seasonal incidence from November to May, and also indicates the age of patients from five to fifteen years.

Pharyngeal symptoms (from the pharynx).   There is pain or soreness in the throat, soreness and difficulty in swallowing. If the palatine uvula and the back wall of the pharynx are included in the process of inflammation, there may be a feeling of a lump in the throat. Breathing through the mouth, due to nasal congestion, leads to a feeling of dryness in the mouth, especially in the morning. The streptococcal nature of pharyngitis is characterized by an abrupt onset and a sharp sore throat.

Discharge from the nose. The discharge is usually viscous, mucous, whitish or yellow-green, which, however, does not always indicate a bacterial infection.

Cough. May be due to involvement in the process of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx or upper respiratory tract, or due to discharge from the nose (post-nasal drip).

The following symptoms are also characteristic:

      * Bad breath. It arises as a result of the release of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also be observed in allergic rhinitis.
      * Headache. It is typical for streptococcal (group A) and mycoplasmal infections, but can also be observed with URTI of a different etiology.
      * Fatigue and general malaise. It is observed with any URTI, but a clear decline in strength is characteristic of influenza infection.
      * Fever. There is usually little or no fever, but newborns and infants may have temperatures as high as 39.4°C (103°F).
      * Availability . It is indicative of, especially in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
      * . It is characteristic of streptococcal infection, but may accompany influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.
      * History of recent oral-genital sexual intercourse, which is especially important in cases of gonococcal pharyngitis.

                        Acute viral or bacterial.

The initial manifestations of sinusitis are often similar to nasopharyngitis and other viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, since the nasal cavity is anatomically connected with the paranasal sinuses, which determines the generalization of the inflammatory process. Sinusitis is characterized by a biphasic pattern of flow, in which there is initially a temporary improvement, then worsening. Unilateral localization of symptoms confirms the suspicion of sinus involvement. With the complete extinction of inflammatory symptoms within a week, one can hardly talk about sinusitis.

Discharge from the nose. Characterized by persistent mucopurulent discharge, pale yellow or yellow-green, which, however, is not a defining symptom, since discharge can also be observed with uncomplicated rhinopharyngitis. Rhinorrhea, as a rule, is insignificant and does not respond to the use of decongestants and antihistamines. In some patients, nasal congestion predominates. Unilateral nasal congestion and mucopurulent discharge from one nostril are indicative of sinusitis.

Hyposmia or loss of smell is secondary to inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

Pain in the projection of the sinus sinuses. In older children and adults, painful symptoms are usually localized in the projection area of ​​the affected sinus. Characterized by pain localized in the forehead, upper jaw, infraorbital region. Inflammation of the maxillary sinus can be expressed as a toothache on the affected side. Pain radiating to the ear may indicate otitis or peritonsillar abscess.

Oropharyngeal symptoms. A sore throat may be the result of irritation from nasal discharge running down the back of the throat. Breathing through the mouth, due to nasal congestion, leads to a feeling of dryness in the mouth, especially after sleep and in the morning.
or bad breath. It arises as a result of the release of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also be observed in allergic rhinitis.

Cough. Inflammatory syndrome of the upper respiratory tract is accompanied by a constant flow of nasal mucosa into the pharynx (post-nasal leakage), requiring more frequent clearing of the throat, that is, accompanied by a cough. The cough that accompanies rhinosinusitis is usually present throughout the day. The cough may be most pronounced in the morning, after sleep, in response to irritation of the pharynx by a secret accumulated during the night. Daytime cough lasting more than 2 weeks suggests bronchial asthma and a number of other conditions. It is also possible that coughing exclusively at night may be a characteristic symptom of some other disease. Cough due to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract can sometimes be accompanied by vomiting due to irritation by the secretions of the root of the tongue. A clinically significant amount of purulent sputum may suggest either pneumonia.

Increase in body temperature. Fever is not entirely characteristic and occurs more often in children. The rise and fall of temperature occurs almost simultaneously with the appearance and cessation of purulent discharge. With SARS complicated by sinusitis, an increase in temperature often precedes the appearance of a purulent discharge.

Fatigue and malaise occurs as with any other upper respiratory tract infection.

This disease is more common in children aged 1-5 years, and is characterized by the sudden onset of clinical symptoms:

1. Sore throat.
2. Salivation, - difficulty or pain when swallowing, feeling of a lump in the throat.
3. - hoarseness or complete loss of voice.
4. The cough is mostly dry, shortness of breath is observed.

An increase in body temperature, weakness, are observed in the same way as in other infections of the upper respiratory tract.
                                                                                                                                                         .

Nasopharyngeal (nasopharyngeal) symptoms. Laryngitis and tracheitis are often preceded by nasopharyngitis for several days. Swallowing is difficult or painful, and there may be a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Cough can be of several types:

      * Dry cough. Adolescents and adults may present with a prolonged, hacking, dry cough following the typical prodromal period of URTI. Minor hemoptysis may be present.
      * Barking cough. Laryngotracheitis or croup in children can be manifested by a characteristic barking, so-called "copper" cough. Symptoms may be worse at night. also produces a barking cough.
      * Whooping cough - attacks of convulsive uncontrollable cough, which is characterized by noisy "groaning" sounds on inspiration and almost complete cessation of breathing at the height of the attack. Whooping cough is more common in children. This cough often comes in cough paroxysms of a dozen or more attacks in succession, and is often worse at night. The cough may persist for several weeks.

Posttussive symptoms - attacks of nausea and vomiting following the paroxysm of whooping cough.
- respiratory failure:

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