Orz and methods of diagnosing the disease at home based on existing symptoms

Many people constantly confuse acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections.

These are different diagnoses: ARVI is a viral infection, and acute respiratory infection is a disease that can be caused not only by viruses, but also by other pathological microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, etc.

Let us further consider possible pathologies, acute respiratory infections, its symptoms and treatment in adults, ways to maintain the immune system and good human health.

What is acute respiratory infection

ARI is not one specific disease, but a set of symptoms that may indicate the development of a fungal, bacterial or viral infection in the body that provokes damage to the upper respiratory tract, that is, a respiratory disease.

Whether it is contagious depends on the cause of its appearance. It is difficult to say exactly how long it lasts; the course of the disease is individual.

If the patient does not come for examination immediately when the first symptoms appear, it is difficult to determine the source of the disease, so doctors often diagnose tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis or rhinitis as an acute respiratory disease.

Causes and symptoms of acute respiratory infections

Symptoms of acute respiratory infections in adults can be different, and this depends on the type of pathogen and the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. It is impossible to make a diagnosis on your own, but the onset of the disease can be predicted by a number of signs.

Symptoms of acute respiratory infections:

1. On the first day of illness, an infection enters the body. These could be viruses, bacteria or fungi. If the immune system is slightly weakened, the infection begins to develop. The patient feels drowsiness, weakness, headache, and decreased performance.
2. Rhinitis occurs almost immediately as soon as viruses or bacteria enter the body.
3. A runny nose, cough, sore throat, and clicking in the ears when swallowing are symptoms of respiratory tract damage.
4. Fever, body aches, muscle pain, increased body temperature.
5. Enlarged lymph nodes (most often cervical) are a signal of infection and inflammatory process.
6. The appearance of herpes on the lips or nose. This is one of the first signs of an infectious disease in patients with herpes. It worsens at the slightest health problems.

• External manifestations of acute respiratory infections: the eyes turn red, conjunctivitis may develop, some experience skin irritation, rash and itching.
• Symptoms may vary: for some, all symptoms appear at the same time, for others in turn.
• In order to be treated correctly, it is necessary to establish the type of acute respiratory infection (this is a group of possible diseases), but this can be done by a doctor after receiving the results of urine, blood and culture tests.
• When examining the biomaterial, the laboratory technician will determine the presence of infection by the number of lymphocytes, and the type of pathology by the type of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Types of acute respiratory infections:

1. A mixed infection in which both viruses and bacteria multiply in the body at the same time.
2. ARVIs are viral pathologies that are most often transmitted by airborne droplets (influenza).
3. Bacterial diseases, that is, caused by bacteria - streptococci, staphylococci, pneumococci, etc.

There are many causes of acute respiratory infections, and all of them are somehow related to the spread and development of pathogens. When a person is healthy and has a strong immune system, his body is able to fight infection and prevent disease.

If it does begin to develop, this is due to a number of factors:

1. Weak immunity and reduced protective functions of the body, due to which it could not resist fungi, bacteria or viruses.
2. Presence of other infectious diseases. Often acute respiratory infections develop as a complication of an existing pathology. For example, if a cold is not treated correctly, a purulent sore throat caused by streptococci or staphylococci may appear.
3. Acute respiratory diseases can begin after hypothermia. It occurs under the influence of low temperatures and disrupts many vital processes in the body. At the same time, blood circulation worsens and the functioning of the immune system is inhibited, which contributes to the development of acute respiratory infections.
4. Stress, physical or emotional stress also affects the general condition of the body and morbidity. With a loss of strength, the body is not able to respond to pathogenic organisms and produce antibodies to fight them. In this regard, during nervous overstrain or physical exhaustion, you can contract any infectious disease.

There are other reasons, for example, poor hygiene, staying in a too dusty room, dry air, etc.

Possible complications

2. Respiratory diseases require immediate diagnosis and treatment, otherwise negative consequences may occur.
3. With acute respiratory infections, the following pathologies can become complications:

• sinusitis;
• otitis;
• meningitis;
• bronchitis;
• neuritis;
• viral encephalitis;
• myocarditis;
• liver damage.

To avoid consequences, you must seek help at the first symptoms of the disease.

Diagnostics

• Diagnosis of acute respiratory infections is carried out in order to determine the presence or absence of infection and find out the type of causative agent of the disease.
• Diagnostic methods depend on the patient's symptoms and general health and include:

• an oral interview in which the doctor determines the duration and intensity of symptoms;
• urine test, which allows you to assess the general condition of the body;
• a blood test indicates the presence of infection and inflammatory processes;
• bacterial culture of a nasopharyngeal swab.

All tests are done within 1-2 days, except for bacterial culture, which is in the laboratory for 4-6 days in special equipment.

When all the tests are ready, the specialist makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment. You should not self-medicate, because the signs of acute respiratory infections may be similar to the symptoms of another disease.

Treatment of acute respiratory infections

Let's look at how to quickly cure acute respiratory infections at home. For this purpose, medications and folk remedies are used.

Let us immediately note that in any case, if a cold or other disease appears, you must first visit a doctor, and then be treated at home, following his recommendations. In some cases, treatment for acute respiratory infections in adults takes place in a hospital.

If measures are taken in a timely manner, as a rule, recovery occurs within 7 days. If you ignore the symptoms, complications may develop.

There are a large number of diseases that can be classified as acute respiratory infections. Among them is the flu, which can be fatal if left untreated.

General measures

Treatment of acute respiratory infections includes not only taking medications, but also a number of activities that are necessary for a quick recovery without consequences:

1. The sick person must go to bed so as not to suffer the disease “on his feet.” Bed rest is one of the prerequisites for proper treatment.
2. Various therapeutic methods. That is, the approach to treatment must be comprehensive, because procedures and medications act differently on each organism. Some patients benefit from taking tablets for a sore throat, while others benefit from inhalation with a nebulizer. The means are different, but the effect is the same.
3. The patient must be provided with proper nutrition and plenty of fluids, up to 4 liters per day. You should not eat food that will irritate your throat. You also need to give up sweet and salty foods. During illness, it is necessary to eat fresh berries, fruits, and nuts, which contain many useful substances. Also be sure to include meat and dairy products in your diet.
4. Be sure to gargle regularly. The solution can be bought at a pharmacy or prepared yourself. After the procedure, it is not recommended to drink or eat for 20 minutes.
5. Also, to cure acute respiratory infections, regular nasal rinsing is necessary. It will get rid of mucus that makes breathing difficult, wash away germs and relieve swelling of the nasopharynx.

With proper treatment and following all recommendations, you can be cured in 4-6 days. If complications occur, the disease may drag on for several months.

There is no special cure for acute respiratory infections. That is why an important step towards proper treatment is visiting a doctor. At the first signs of illness, you can contact an otolaryngologist or therapist.

Depending on the results of the study, doctors may prescribe an additional consultation with specialists.

Medicines

First of all, it is important to note that treating acute respiratory infections with medications without a doctor’s prescription is strictly prohibited. For normal treatment, an integrated approach is required:

1. The temperature during acute respiratory infections often rises above 38 ° C, and it is necessary to take antipyretic medications. You can use drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen. These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that lower temperature and have an analgesic effect.
2. Various drops and sprays of vasoconstrictor and anti-edematous action must be injected into the nasal passages 2-3 times a day to improve breathing. If it turns out that the source of the disease is bacteria, then you can use antibacterial nasal drops.
3. Antibiotics are prescribed in case of severe inflammation and the development of a bacterial infection. As a rule, the doctor prescribes a broad-spectrum drug that actively fights gram-positive, gram-negative, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
4. If the causative agent of an acute respiratory infection is a fungus or a virus, you must take appropriate antifungal or antiviral tablets;
5. For acute respiratory infections, drugs with restorative and immunomodulatory effects may be prescribed to increase the body's protective functions.

Before taking medications, you should consult a specialist about indications and contraindications. During treatment, it is important to maintain bed rest and proper nutrition.

You should not drink alcohol and it is recommended to stop smoking so as not to increase irritation of the respiratory system.

Traditional methods

Traditional medicine is distinguished by its availability and naturalness. It is possible to treat acute respiratory infections in adults using traditional methods only as an auxiliary therapy, and the main treatment should be medication.

Let's look at how to treat acute respiratory infections at home. Drinking plenty of fluids is the most important rule for any respiratory disease.

Firstly, additional fluid increases urination, and pathogens are removed from the body with urine, and their concentration is significantly reduced.

You can use many drinks for this:

1. Warm milk with butter and honey. This combination of ingredients helps fight viruses and bacteria thanks to the many beneficial properties of honey, soothes the throat and eliminates symptoms of the disease. It is advisable to take from the 1st day of pathology. Drink before bed to reduce cough.
2. Gargling should be done at least 6 times a day. The most proven and simplest remedy is a combination of salt and soda (½ tsp per glass of water). If there are no contraindications, you can add 2-3 drops of iodine to the solution, which will have an additional antiseptic effect.
3. A decoction of medicinal plants. Chamomile, linden, string, calendula have antibacterial properties, relieve inflammation, and help normalize body temperature. For a glass of boiling water you need 1 tsp. collection Leave for 15 minutes, strain and drink 2-3 times a day. The broth should not be hot, so as not to irritate an already sore throat.
4. Beekeeping products (honey, bee bread) have healing, immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects. Honey helps soothe the throat and eliminate cough. Before use, it is important to make sure there are no allergies.
5. If there is no fever, you can use warm compresses on the chest for a strong cough and steam inhalations of salt, soda, mineral water, herbal decoction or a solution of any medical antiseptic.

In order not to provoke complications and adverse reactions, if you have symptoms of the disease, it is recommended to consult with specialists who will prescribe the dosage, select a comprehensive course of treatment and tell you what to take for a particular disease.

Prevention of acute respiratory infections

2. Every doctor will say that prevention of acute respiratory diseases is always easier and better than long-term treatment.
3. The main activities include:

• quitting smoking and alcohol, which weaken the immune system;
• proper nutrition, a balanced diet and taking vitamins that increase the body’s protective functions;
• during an epidemic, avoiding contact with sick people whenever possible;
• To prevent acute respiratory infections, before going to crowded places, you need to use sprays or barrier ointments that protect the mucous membrane from viruses and bacteria.

In conclusion, it should be noted that acute respiratory infections refer to a whole group of possible diseases of the respiratory system. This diagnosis is used by specialists when the exact origin of the pathology is unknown.

It should not be confused with ARVI - viral diseases. To avoid complications, you should seek medical help at the first symptoms.

Acute respiratory infections in adults - what it is, how it manifests itself and how to treat it correctly Link to main publication

Source: https://respiratornie-bolezni.com/prostuda/orz-u-vzroslyh-chto-eto-takoe-kak-proyavlyaetsya-i-kak-pravilno-lechitsya.html

Diagnosis of ARVI

The diagnosis of ARVI is one of the most common diseases worldwide. Every third child and fifth adult is exposed to the disease during the cool season.

Routes of infection for ARVI

Acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI) is a respiratory tract disease caused by a virus. The general concept unites a group of viral infections. Differential diagnosis is carried out for clear, quick therapeutic actions.

The disease is common in children and adults. Normally, a child gets sick 10-12 times a year, and an adult up to 4 times.

It is difficult to determine the specific type of virus. ARVI is characterized by infection by viruses of different parts of the respiratory system, intoxication, and a layer of bacterial infection.

Pathogens of ARVI:

• Influenza viruses A, B, C.
• Rhinovirus.
• Parainfluenza.
• Adenovirus.
• RSV.

Children and adults get sick, but children, due to weak immunity, cannot cope with diseases. Any external influence on the child’s body brings complications.

The source of infection is a sick person. Methods of transmission: airborne, contact or household. Virus particles are transmitted from person to person through saliva, during conversation, by kissing, by sharing utensils, or by shaking hands. An exhausted, weakened body is more susceptible to re-infection.

The peak incidence occurs in the cold season. Each disease is different, so it is important to determine the diagnosis for accurate treatment.

Diagnosis of ARVI in adults

In accordance with WHO documentation, the diagnosis of ARVI has its own subtleties. In accordance with the norms, the cause and diagnosis are made after a culture of a smear from the throat or nasal canal, as well as a conclusion.

Differential diagnosis of influenza and ARVI is determined depending on the symptoms.

Rhinovirus is characterized by an acute onset of infection, the temperature may not rise, and intoxication symptoms are sluggish. There is a runny nose, swelling of the nose, and signs of sneezing. As a result of incorrect or poor-quality treatment, otitis media, sinusitis, pulmonary obstruction, and bronchial asthma occur.

The patient feels difficulty breathing, dry cough, shortness of breath with light exertion or fast walking.

The patient quickly gets tired, external intoxication is felt, and when palpated, the lymph nodes under the jaw, occipital and cervical are enlarged. Complications may include bronchitis or pneumonia.

With adenovirus, the temperature reaches 39 degrees for 5-10 days. Its peculiarity is a wave-like increase in temperature. On the fifth day, improvement is felt, the temperature decreases, and on the 6th day it increases to its maximum again. The mucous membranes of the eyes and nose become inflamed.

The pharynx is red, there is pain when swallowing, the tonsils are inflamed, the structure of the lungs, and the lymph nodes are enlarged. Adenovirus is dangerous due to complications: otitis media, sinusitis, myocarditis.

With parainfluenza, there is an increase in temperature up to 38 degrees, headache, weakness, and body aches. Complications include laryngeal stenosis and bronchitis.

Differential diagnosis is needed to prevent complications.

Laboratory diagnosis of influenza is based on various research methods. The doctor determines the diagnosis based on the symptoms and general picture of the disease.

Express diagnosis of influenza is based on the RIF and PCR methods, which determine the Ag of viruses in the cylindrical epithelium of the nasal passages.

Less commonly used is a method for determining viral neuraminidase activity in reactions with a specific substrate (to clarify the influenza virus), ELISA.

A specialist can distinguish ARVI from influenza by external signs and the collected medical history.

Diagnosis of ARVI in children

In a child, symptoms are similar to those of adults, but there are some difficulties and dangers. A differential diagnosis is made for children to alert them to complications.

Children in the first two years of life, due to the physiological development of the respiratory organs, are often diagnosed with croup - active constriction of the larynx, dangerous for suffocation.

The voice becomes hoarse, the wings of the nose swell - signs to see a doctor or hospitalization.

Parents should seek emergency help if the child develops a rash due to malaise, a hoarse voice, a white coating on the arches of the pharynx, and a high fever that does not subside for more than five days.

Timely diagnosis and medical care will be the best prevention of complications. Patients' breathing is harsh, and with pneumonia or bronchitis, wheezing is heard.

PCR diagnostics of ARVI

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method shows viral material (RNA, DNA) in samples and is considered a relevant and highly accurate method.

The analyzed material is a swab from the nasal cavity, throat in the first 3-5 days from the moment of illness. The method determines the pathogens of highly pathogenic influenza A (H1N), B and adenovirus.

PCR is a labor-intensive and time-consuming method. Used for epidemiological and research purposes, the modification of microorganisms is studied, and relevant strains for vaccines are separated.

General laboratory examination of the body

To quickly determine an accurate diagnosis in a clinic, the Influenza A+B Cyto-test is used. Its action is similar to determining pregnancy using a test. The discharge from the nasal passage, taken by the nurse with a sterile swab, is applied to the soaked paper. After a few minutes the result is presented.

Other studies that diagnose influenza virus and acute respiratory infection include: MFA and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), RGA and PTTA, cell culture or cultivation in a chicken embryo. Each method is prescribed by a doctor individually based on the external manifestations of the disease.

The fastest and most reliable method is PCR. Its results indicate an accurate diagnosis. All methods are diagnostic; differential diagnosis of influenza and ARVI is carried out in order to determine an accurate diagnosis, prescribe effective therapy, and exclude complications.

According to doctors, it is better to use preventive measures: vaccination, taking immunomodulators, antiviral drugs with interferon levels. And also we must not forget about wet treatment indoors, regular ventilation, walks in the fresh air, an active lifestyle, and the elimination of bad habits.

Prevention measures:

• Limiting visits to public gatherings during epidemics.
• Protection of the nasal passages with oxolinic ointment.
• Using a mask.
• Hardening.
• Use of immunomodulators (IRS-19, Arbidol).
• Vaccination.

Complications of the disease can occur at any stage and are caused not only by the influence of the virus, but also by the addition of a bacterial infection. Bronchitis, pneumonia, and obstructive pulmonary disease often occur.

In second place, sinusitis and otitis develop when bacteria penetrate the maxillary sinuses or ear canal, forming inflammation or purulent discharge.

For young children, laryngeal stenosis is dangerous when suffocation occurs.

Source: https://bezgrippa.com/orvi/diagnoz-orvi/

Acute respiratory infections: symptoms and treatment, prevention, treatment in adults

ARI (acute respiratory disease) is a group of infectious diseases, the characteristic feature of which is infection of a person by airborne droplets.

Among all known infectious pathologies, ARI occupies the leading indicators in terms of frequency of occurrence, and this pathology is equally common both in socially developed countries and in countries with a reduced level of social protection of the population.

Most often, the disease is transmitted by airborne droplets, but infection is also possible through household objects. In rare cases, other routes of transmission have been reported.

Let's look at the causes and symptoms of acute respiratory infections in adults, as well as how to treat the disease in order to prevent complications for the body.

What is ORZ?

ARI is a collective concept that characterizes all possible diseases of the respiratory tract - viral, viral-microbial and purely microbial, as well as those caused by intracellular parasites.

A distinctive feature of all acute respiratory infections are symptoms that indicate damage to the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract. It is here that the accumulation of pathogens, their primary deposition and reproduction occurs. In the future, the activity of viruses leads to the development of inflammatory processes and all kinds of complications associated with disruptions in the functioning of vital systems of the body.

Every year in our country, up to 40 million people suffer from acute respiratory diseases. For rhinovirus infection, the so-called. The “gates of entry” are the mucous membranes of the nose and conjunctiva. According to statistics, an adult suffers more or less severe acute respiratory disease on average 2-3 times a year.

This group of diseases manifests itself seasonally - more often pathologies occur when the seasons change (in the autumn-winter period). It is important to take timely measures to prevent acute respiratory infections so as not to become infected in the midst of an epidemic.

ARI has a synonym - ARI, or acute respiratory infection. In common parlance, acute respiratory infections are usually referred to by the more familiar word “cold.” Also, in connection with colds and flu, you can often hear the abbreviation ARVI.

Causes

Viruses that cause acute respiratory infections infect the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. An inflammatory process develops in the underlying tissue. Toxic products of viruses act on various parts of the nervous system.

The severity of the disease is related to the virulence of the virus and the state of the patient’s immune system.

A viral infection causes a decrease in immunity, which contributes to the addition of a secondary bacterial infection and the appearance of complications.

Depending on the involvement of various parts of the respiratory tract in the process, the following are distinguished:

Source: http://www.zdoroviyvopros.ru/infektsionnye-zabolevaniya/orz/

Acute respiratory diseases (ARI): causes, symptoms and treatment in an article by infectious disease specialist P. A. Aleksandrov

Above the article by Dr. Alexandrov P.A. Literary editor Elena Berezhnaya, scientific editor Sergey Fedosov worked

Published February 6, 2018 Updated July 23, 2019

Acute respiratory diseases (ARIs) are a group of acute infectious diseases, the pathogens of which enter the human body through the respiratory tract and, multiplying in the cells of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, damage them, causing the main symptom complex of the disease (syndrome of respiratory tract damage and general infectious intoxication). The use of the term ARVI (in the absence of a laboratory-confirmed etiological decoding) is incorrect.

Etiology

ARI is a polyetiological complex of diseases, the main types of pathogens:

• bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, etc.);
• viruses (rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, reoviruses, coronaviruses, enteroviruses, herpesviruses, parainfluenza and influenza viruses);
• chlamydia (Chlamydia pneumoniae, Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia trachomatis);
• mycoplasma (Mycoplasma pneumoniae).

Viruses, as the causative agent of acute respiratory infections, have a predominant position in the structure of morbidity, so it is not unreasonable to use the term ARVI (acute respiratory viral disease). Recently, the term ARI (acute respiratory infection) has sometimes been used.[2][4]

Epidemiology

Mainly anthroponosis. They are the most numerous and common group of human diseases (up to 80% of all diseases in children) and therefore pose a serious problem for the health care of various countries due to the economic damage they cause.

The source of infection is a sick person with pronounced and erased forms of the disease. Susceptibility is universal, immunity to some pathogens (adenoviruses, rhinoviruses) is persistent, but strictly type-specific, i.e.

You can get sick with acute respiratory infections caused by one type of pathogen (but different serotypes, of which there can be hundreds). The incidence increases in the autumn-winter period, can take the form of epidemic outbreaks, and affects countries with cool climates.

The main transmission mechanism is airborne droplets (aerosol, to a lesser extent airborne dust), but contact and household mechanisms can also play a role (contact - through kissing, household - through contaminated hands, objects, water).[2][7 ]

If you notice similar symptoms, consult your doctor. Do not self-medicate - it is dangerous for your health!

• The incubation period is different and depends on the type of pathogen; it can vary from several hours to 14 days (adenovirus).
• Each causative agent of acute respiratory infections has its own specific characteristics of the course of the disease, but they are all united by the presence of syndromes of general infectious intoxication (SOII) and respiratory tract damage, to one degree or another.

Here is the syndrome of damage to the respiratory tract - SPRT (the main syndrome for these diseases), starting from the upper sections:

• rhinitis (nasal congestion, decreased sense of smell, sneezing, nasal discharge - first transparent mucous, then mucopurulent - more dense, yellow-green in color, this occurs as a result of the addition of secondary bacterial flora);
• pharyngitis (soreness and pain of varying intensity in the throat, dry cough - “throat”);
• laryngitis (hoarseness, sometimes aphonia, cough and sore throat);
• tracheitis (painful, predominantly dry cough, accompanied by rawness and pain in the chest);
• bronchitis (cough with or without sputum, dry wheezing, rarely coarse wheezing on auscultation);
• bronchiolitis (cough of varying intensity, wheezing of various sizes).

Separately, we should highlight the syndrome of lung tissue damage - pneumonia (pneumonia). In the context of acute respiratory infections, it should be considered as a complication of the underlying disease. It manifests itself as a significant deterioration in the general condition, a pronounced cough that intensifies with inspiration, with the sound of crepitus on auscultation, moist fine rales, sometimes shortness of breath and pain in the chest.

Additional syndromes may include:

• exanthema syndrome (rashes on the skin);
• tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils);
• lymphadenopathy (LAP);
• conjunctivitis;
• hepatolienal (enlarged liver and spleen);
• hemorrhagic;
• enteritis.

Algorithm for recognizing acute respiratory infections of various etiologies:

yes SOIIno SOII

signs of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract	any form of acute respiratory infection (mild)
severe rhinitis	rhinovirus disease
severe pharyngitis, hepatolienal syndrome, conjunctivitis, cervical PA, tonsillitis	adenoviral disease
laryngitis is pronounced	parainfluenza
tracheitis is pronounced	flu
severe bronchiolitis	respiratory syncytial disease

There are differences in the initial period of influenza and other acute respiratory diseases, expressed in the earlier onset of SOIS in influenza (delay of SPRT) and the opposite situation in relation to acute respiratory infections of other etiologies.

A typical acute respiratory infection begins with a feeling of discomfort, soreness in the nose and throat, and sneezing.

Over a short period, the symptoms increase, the soreness intensifies, a feeling of intoxication appears, the body temperature rises (usually no higher than 38.5℃), a runny nose and a mild dry cough appear.

Depending on the type of pathogen and the properties of the microorganism, all of the listed acute respiratory infections syndromes may sequentially appear in various combinations and degrees of severity, and symptoms of complications and emergency conditions may develop.[6][7]

The entrance gate is the mucous membrane of the oropharynx and upper respiratory tract.

The first stage of colonization of the human body is the adsorption of the infectious agent on the surface of cells that have specific receptors for each type of pathogen.

This function is usually performed by one of the surface proteins of the pathogen's envelope, for example, the glycoprotein - fibrils in adenoviruses, hemagglutinin spikes in paramyxo- or orthomyxoviruses, in coronaviruses - the S-protein compound and glycolipids.

The interaction of a pathogenic agent with cellular receptors is necessary not only for its attachment to the cell, but also for the initiation of cellular processes that prepare the cell for further invasion, i.e. the presence of appropriate receptors on the cell surface is one of the most important factors determining the possibility or impossibility of the occurrence of infectious process.

The entry of a pathogen into a host cell triggers a flurry of signals that activate a range of processes by which the body attempts to rid itself of it, such as an early protective inflammatory response, as well as cellular and humoral immune responses.

An increase in cell metabolism, on the one hand, is a protective process, but on the other hand, as a result of the accumulation of free radicals and inflammatory factors, the process of disruption of the lipid layer of cell membranes of the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract and lungs is started, the matrix and barrier properties of intracellular membranes are disrupted, and their permeability increases. and disorganization of the cell’s vital activity develops until its death.

The third stage is characterized by increased severity of immune defense reactions, elimination of the microorganism and restoration of the structure and function of the affected host tissue.[5][7]

1. 1. According to clinical form:
2. a) acatarrhal (no signs of respiratory tract damage in the presence of symptoms of general infectious intoxication);
3. b) erased (mild clinical picture);
4. c) asymptomatic (complete absence of clinical symptoms);
5. 2. Downstream:

• uncomplicated acute respiratory infections;
• complicated acute respiratory infection;

3. By severity:

• associated with ENT organs (otitis media, sinusitis, bacterial rhinitis, false croup);
• associated with lung tissue (viral pneumonia, viral-bacterial and bacterial pneumonia, lung abscess, pleural empyema);
• associated with damage to the nervous system (convulsive syndrome, neuritis, meningitis, meningoencephalitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, etc.);
• associated with heart damage (myocarditis);
• associated with exacerbation of chronic diseases (exacerbation of rheumatism, tonsillitis, tuberculosis, pyelonephritis, etc.).[7]

In widespread routine practice, laboratory diagnosis of acute respiratory infections (especially with a typical uncomplicated course) is usually not carried out. In some cases the following may be used:

• a detailed clinical blood test (leukopenia and normocytosis, lymphocytosis and monocytosis, with the accumulation of bacterial complications - neurophilic leukocytosis with a shift to the left);
• general clinical urine analysis (changes are uninformative and indicate the degree of intoxication);
• biochemical blood tests (increased ALT with certain systemic pathogens, for example, adenovirus infection, CRP);
• serological reactions (retrospective diagnosis using RSK, RA, ELISA methods is possible - rarely used in practice. Currently, PCR diagnostics of fingerprint smears is widely used, but its use is limited mainly to hospitals and research groups).

If complications are suspected, appropriate laboratory and instrumental studies are carried out (x-ray of the paranasal sinuses, chest organs, CT).[3][5]

Due to the extreme occurrence and, to a greater extent, the presence of forms of mild and moderate severity of the disease, patients with acute respiratory infections are treated at home, severe diseases (with the risk of development and developed complications) should be treated in an infectious diseases hospital (until the process normalizes and trends towards recovery appear). At home, acute respiratory infections are treated by a therapist or pediatrician (in some cases an infectious disease specialist).

One of the most important components in the treatment of acute respiratory infections is a favorable indoor microclimate: the air should be cool (18–20°C) and humid (air humidity 60–65%). Accordingly, the patient should not be wrapped in fur blankets (especially at elevated body temperatures), but dressed in warm pajamas.

The food should be varied, mechanically and chemically gentle, rich in vitamins, low-fat meat broths are recommended - thin chicken broth is ideal, etc.), drink plenty of fluids up to 3 l/day. (warm boiled water, tea, fruit drinks). Warm milk with honey, tea with raspberries, and a decoction of lingonberry leaves have a good effect.

Drug therapy for acute respiratory infections includes etiotropic (i.e., affecting the causative agent of the disease), pathogenetic (detoxification) and symptomatic (alleviating the patient’s condition by reducing disturbing symptoms) therapy.

Etiotropic therapy makes sense only when prescribed in the early period and only with a limited range of pathogens (mainly influenza). The use of “highly effective” drugs from the domestic pharmaceutical industry (Arbidol, Kagocel, Isoprinosine, Amiksin, Polyoxidonium, etc.) has absolutely no proven effectiveness and can only have an effect as a placebo.

The following groups of drugs can be used as symptomatic therapy:

• antipyretics at temperatures above 39.5℃ in adults, above 38.5℃ in children (paracetamol, ibuprofen);
• antiviral and antibacterial eye drops for conjunctivitis;
• vasoconstrictor nasal drops for nasal congestion and runny nose (no more than 5 days);
• salt-containing nasal drops for rhinitis to thin mucus;
• antiallergic drugs for the allergic component of acute respiratory infections;
• topical anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents (tablets, lozenges, etc.);
• means for improving the formation, liquefaction and secretion of sputum (mucolytics);
• broad-spectrum antibiotics (if there is no improvement within 4-5 days, the addition of secondary bacterial flora and the development of complications).[2][6]

The leading role in preventing the spread of acute respiratory infections (excluding influenza) is:

• isolation separation of sick and healthy;
• during the epidemic season (autumn-winter), limiting visits to crowded places and the use of public transport;
• washing hands and face with soap after interacting with sick people;
• wearing masks by people with signs of acute respiratory infections;
• walks in the open air;
• healthy eating, multivitamins;
• hardening;
• frequent ventilation of the room;
• vaccine prophylaxis (Hemophilus influenzae, pneumococcus).

1. Aitov K. A. On the issue of the clinic, diagnosis and treatment of influenza and ARVI / K. A. Aitov // Medical Council. - 2015. - N2. — pp. 33-36
2. Vikulov G. Kh. Frequent acute respiratory viral infections and influenza in the practice of a general practitioner, pediatrician and otorhinolaryngologist: modern diagnosis and treatment from the perspective of evidence-based medicine / G. Kh. Vikulov // Consilium medicum. - 2015. - N11. — P. 47-50
3. Zaitseva O.V. Ways to prevent acute respiratory diseases / O.V. Zaitseva // Pharmateka. - 2014. - N15. — P. 84-87
4. Karetkina G. N. Influenza and ARVI: treatment and prevention in the upcoming epidemic season of 2015-2016. / G. N. Karetkina // Attending physician. - 2015. - N11. — P. 46-50
5. Komyak Ya. F. Acute respiratory viral infections in children / Ya. F. Komyak // World of Medicine. - 2015. - N1. — pp. 12-14
6. Treatment of ARVI and influenza in routine clinical practice / G. Eganyan [et al.] // Doctor. - 2014. - N12. — P. 67-69
7. Dreizin R. S., Astafieva N. V. Acute respiratory diseases: Etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinic / R. S. Dreizin, N. V. Astafieva. - M.: Medicine, 1991. - 136 p.

Source: https://ProBolezny.ru/ostrye-respiratornye-zabolevaniya-orz/

9 unobvious changes in the body that may hide dangerous diseases

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Source: https://www.adme.ru/zhizn-nauka/9-neochevidnyh-simptomov-za-kotorymi-mogut-skryvatsya-opasnye-bolezni-1941115/

ARVI

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are the largest group of infections transmitted by airborne droplets and cause respiratory manifestations of varying severity: from a mild runny nose to bronchitis or pneumonia. Every person gets sick from ARVI at least several times in their life.

ARVI belongs to a separate group of respiratory infections caused exclusively by viruses, since there is also a fairly large group of acute respiratory infections (acute respiratory diseases) that can be caused by microbial agents - pathogenic and opportunistic microbes.

• ARVIs are widespread among children and adults; on average, children get sick from three to 10-12 times a year, adults from one to four times a year.
• ARVIs are highly relevant due to the fact that they do not have specific treatment and methods of specific prevention (there is no vaccine for all known ARVIs).
• In addition, it is very difficult to accurately determine the specific virus that caused the disease in each patient, which is why the collective term arose - it implies the similarity of the manifestations and principles of treatment of this group of diseases.

Causes

ARVI is caused by viruses, of which about 250 species are known today. All of them belong to certain groups: rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, coronaviruses, enteroviruses, parvaviruses, paramyxoviruses, influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses, respiratory sentiential viruses, coxsackie viruses, and other respiratory viruses.

Infection occurs by airborne droplets. Virus particles are transmitted by coughing, talking, or sneezing.

For children, the contact route of infection is also relevant - through kisses from adults, using shared utensils and through dirty hands.

Seasonal changes predispose to the spread of viruses due to:

• prolonged persistence of viruses in the air due to relatively warm and humid weather,
• temperature fluctuations and hypothermia of the body,
• overcrowding of the population in enclosed spaces,
• little exposure to fresh air and rare ventilation,
• weakening of the body by lack of vitamins and monotonous nutrition,
• exacerbation of chronic pathology.

Manifestations of ARVI

ARVI usually occurs in stages, the incubation period from the moment of infection to the appearance of the first signs varies, ranging from several hours to 3-7 days. During the period of clinical manifestations, all acute respiratory viral infections have similar manifestations of varying severity:

• nasal congestion, runny nose, nasal discharge from scanty to copious and watery, sneezing and itchy nose,
• sore throat, discomfort, pain when swallowing, redness in the throat,
• cough (dry or wet),
• fever from moderate (37.5-38 degrees) to severe (38.5-40 degrees),
• general malaise, refusal to eat, headaches, drowsiness,
• redness of the eyes, burning, lacrimation,
• indigestion with loose stools,
• rarely there is a reaction of the lymph nodes in the jaw and neck, in the form of enlargement with mild pain.

Manifestations depend on the specific type of virus, and can range from a slight runny nose and cough to severe febrile and toxic manifestations. On average, manifestations last from 2-3 to seven or more days, the febrile period lasts up to 2-3 days.

The main symptom of ARVI is high infectiousness to others, the timing of which depends on the type of virus. On average, a patient is contagious during the last days of the incubation period and the first 2-3 days of clinical manifestations; gradually the number of viruses decreases and the patient becomes not dangerous in terms of the spread of infection.  

Complications

Typically, viral infections are treated very superficially, without consulting a doctor, and self-medicating. This can lead to complications such as:

• acute sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses with the addition of a purulent infection),
• the infection descends down the respiratory tract with the formation of bronchitis and pneumonia,
• spread of infection to the auditory tube with the formation of otitis media,
• the addition of a secondary bacterial infection (for example, the development of a sore throat),
• exacerbation of foci of chronic infection both in the bronchopulmonary system and in other organs.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis in the acute period is not difficult - the manifestations are typical; sometimes, to exclude a purulent infection, a swab from the throat and nose with a bacterial culture is performed. There are no additional diagnostic methods for uncomplicated ARVI.

If it is necessary to diagnose complications, an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses or chest is used.

Treatment of ARVI

Treatment is provided by general practitioners, pediatricians and infectious disease specialists. First of all, the basis of therapy is:

• isolation from other children and adults,
• bed rest,
• plenty of fluid intake, eating according to appetite (vegetable and milk table),
• ventilation and air humidification.

No specific antiviral drugs have been developed for acute respiratory viral infections; only symptomatic drugs are used for these infections. These include:

• antipyretics for fever above 38.5-39 degrees and feeling unwell (lower temperatures are usually not brought down),
• drugs for the common cold - otrivin, sanorin, pinosol, etc.,
• antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs for the pharynx (tantum verde, hexoral, cameton, etc.),
• antitussives (Sinekod, Codelac), expectorants (Tussin, plantain syrup), phlegm thinners (Ascoril, ACC).
• vitamin C in increased dosages, multivitamins.
• You can use folk therapy methods - herbal decoctions, tea with honey, raspberries, milk with honey.

The following are contraindicated for ARVI:

• antibiotics,
• immune drugs.

The prognosis with timely and complete treatment is favorable; the disease resolves within one to two weeks.

Source: https://www.diagnos.ru/diseases/lorr/orvi