HEALTH & WELLNESS
What can you do to prevent a bad upper respiratory infection?
KENNETH SZWAK
An upper respiratory infection( URI) is one of the most common reasons for visiting a doctor. Although“ cold season” usually starts in the fall and lasts through March or April, URIs can occur any time of year.
The term URI covers a group of illnesses. A URI can range from the common cold— typically mild and limited to symptoms that affect the nose and throat— to life-threatening illnesses such as epiglottitis, which can block the flow of air into the trachea. While bacteria and viruses are both causes, viruses account for the great majority, about 85 percent of URIs. Sinusitis, laryngitis and bronchitis are also examples.
URIs are contagious and spread from one person to another through the air and direct hand-to-hand contact. When someone sick sneezes or coughs without covering his or her nose or mouth, the virus is sprayed into the air. If you’ re exposed and touch your nose or mouth, you are at risk for a URI.
URIs are mostly treated to relieve symptoms, such as runny nose, congestion, sneezing, cough and sputum production, which are hallmark symptoms. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, wheezing and difficulty swallowing.
Nasal decongestants, steam inhalation and gargling with salt water can help. Acetaminophen and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can help reduce fever, aches and pains. It is important to remember
that since most URIs are due to viruses, antibiotics will not have any effect on the illness. When you are seen by your healthcare provider, they will be able to better determine if your illness is due to a virus or bacteria and then recommend a proper course of treatment.
Seek immediate medical help for any trouble breathing, shortness of breath, inability to swallow liquids( liquids that are unable to pass into your stomach), sore throat with drooling, fever with a stiff neck, fevers that last more than 7 days or altered mental status.
The best protection against URIs is frequent hand washing with soap and water. Washing your hands reduces exposure to secretions that can spread infection. Other tips include:
• Avoid being in close contact with people who are sick.
• Wipe down objects such as remote controls, phones and doorknobs that may be touched by people in the house who are ill.
• Avoid sharing cups and glasses with those who are sick, and make sure they are properly washed.
• Cover your mouth and nose if you are the one who is sick.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow rather than your hand.
• Stay home if you are not feeling well.
Kenneth Szwak, MHS, PA-C, is Chief P. A. and EMS Director of the Emergency Department at Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center in Camden. www. njcopsmagazine. com ■ FEBRUARY 2017 73