Respiratory infection
Respiratory Infection
Respiratory infection (/rɪˈspɪrətɔːri ɪnˈfɛkʃən/) is a type of infection that affects the respiratory system. The term is derived from the Latin words 'respirare' meaning 'to breathe' and 'infectio' meaning 'the act of infecting'.
Types of Respiratory Infections
There are two main types of respiratory infections: upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).
- Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) is an infection that affects the upper part of the respiratory system, which includes the nose, sinuses, and throat. Common types of URTIs include the common cold, sinusitis, and tonsillitis.
- Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is an infection that affects the lower part of the respiratory system, which includes the trachea, bronchi, and lungs. Common types of LRTIs include pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
Causes
Respiratory infections are usually caused by viruses or bacteria. They can also be caused by fungi or parasites, although this is less common.
Symptoms
Symptoms of respiratory infections can vary depending on the type of infection and the part of the respiratory system that is affected. Common symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
Treatment
Treatment for respiratory infections depends on the cause of the infection. Viral infections are usually treated with rest and fluids, while bacterial infections may require antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Prevention
Prevention of respiratory infections includes regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and getting vaccinated against common respiratory pathogens, such as the influenza virus and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Respiratory infection
- Wikipedia's article - Respiratory infection
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