Spring and autumn are the most unpredictable seasons. The only thing that repeats itself every year is the huge number of people who get sick. acute respiratory (ORZ) and acute viral (ARVI) diseases.
Symptoms of acute respiratory infections
From the first days of acute respiratory infections, the patient’s temperature rises, the throat becomes inflamed, it either becomes covered with a white coating or becomes red. A cough begins, at first dry, then turns into bronchitis with a wet cough. Mucus begins to come out of the nose, first clear, and then with pus.
ARVI symptoms
- sneezing, mucus formation;
- weakness and lethargy of the patient;
- temperature rises to 38 degrees already on the second day of illness;
- damage to the mucous membrane of the eyes and gastrointestinal tract;
- cough and runny nose become wet.
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Consultation with a therapist in MedicCity
2 Consultation with a therapist in MedicCity
3 Consultation with a therapist in MedicCity
What are acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections?
The term acute respiratory infections refers to a whole group of diseases that affect the respiratory system. The pathology is caused by various pathogens: protozoa, viruses, fungi, pathogenic bacteria. The diagnosis of acute respiratory infections is made when the etiology is unclear, when the doctor was unable to identify the main pathogen. In this case, mandatory laboratory examinations are indicated, on the basis of which the cause and name of the disease are clarified.
Since acute respiratory infections are caused by many infections, the disease is often acute and severe. A pronounced clinical picture is noted, the patient is worried about malaise, general weakness, runny nose, headaches and sore throat. Also prolonged fever, chills and eye sensitivity.
ARVIs are a number of pathologies that arise as a result of the penetration of various viruses into the body. Often the causative agents are adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, parainfluenza and influenza viruses. The main signs are a sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, high fever, weakness and headache.
The difference between acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections
The main difference between acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections is the etiology of the diseases. In the first case, the causes are viruses, in the second - pathogenic bacteria, viruses and other pathogens.
The symptoms are also different. Acute respiratory diseases are characterized by a slightly high temperature, cough, runny nose, and inflammatory damage to the mucous membrane of the larynx. The development factor is hypothermia of the body. Treatment is carried out with antiviral and antibacterial agents. The duration of acute respiratory infections is at least 14 days in the absence of complications.
With ARVI, the situation is different. During the development of infection, high body temperature is recorded, up to 40 C or more. The patient complains of malaise, severe weakness and body pain. There is redness of the eyes with conjunctivitis, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Infection with pathology occurs from a specific pathogen. Therefore, treatment is targeted, antiviral drugs and symptomatic drugs are prescribed.
Risk factors
Almost every person knows first-hand what acute respiratory infections are. For the vast majority of adults, unpleasant symptoms of acute respiratory infections make themselves felt 2-3 times a year. As a rule, the peak incidence occurs in the damp and cold seasons, during a period of decreased protective function of the body and increased activity of viruses. For various reasons, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections are particularly dangerous for people over 55 years of age, asthmatics, diabetics, with endocrinological and neurological problems, as well as for hypertensive patients. Pregnant women should be very careful.
Reasons for development
The main cause of ARVI is viral cells. Acute respiratory infections develop as a result of various infections: fungi, pathogenic bacteria, less often protozoa and parasites, and viruses.
Secondary factors provoking diseases are:
- Weak immune system.
- Nervous overstrain.
- Hypothermia of the body.
- Concomitant pathologies, including chronic forms.
- Deficiency of vitamins and minerals necessary for normal functioning.
- Poor nutrition.
- Unfavorable environment in the place of residence (dirty air, water).
Symptoms of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections
Symptoms help differentiate between acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections. However, diseases do not appear immediately. At the stage of incubation development, there are no signs. Their occurrence is observed 2-3 days after infection. Less often after a week if the person has a strong immune system.
At this time, it is recommended to undergo a medical examination so that the doctor can correctly diagnose and prescribe competent treatment tactics.
Symptoms characteristic of acute respiratory infections:
- Sneezing, runny nose.
- Weakness, malaise.
- Temperature rises to 38 C.
- Painful sensations in the throat.
- Wet cough with clear sputum.
- Diarrhea is possible.
- Watery eyes, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes.
In acute respiratory viral infections, the following symptoms are observed:
- Sudden onset of illness.
- High body temperature up to 40 C or more. Lasts a long time, hard to knock off.
- Inflammatory lesion of the throat; when complications develop, a sore throat with a specific plaque occurs. The sputum changes color to green or yellow.
- Severe weakness, general malaise. Therefore, the patient often feels sleepy.
- Dry cough – at the beginning of an infection. Afterwards, sputum separation is observed, against the background of which bronchitis, tracheitis and other complicated conditions develop.
- Headache.
- Nasal congestion.
Feeling unwell, fever and sore throat, many people go to the clinic. And to the question: “What do I have, doctor?” – they may hear the answer: ARVI, ARI or ARI. Many people wonder: is this the same diagnosis? After all, the symptoms of the disease are, in most cases, the same. Then why does the doctor prescribe antiviral drugs in one case, antibiotics in the second, and a regular throat treatment in the third? And what can you take in all these cases to reduce the incidence of colds? Let's figure it out together.
What are acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory infections?
ARI (acute respiratory disease) is a condition caused by an infectious-inflammatory process in the respiratory tract that occurs for a variety of reasons. The most common are hypothermia, allergies, infection and decreased immunity due to stress, lack of vitamins, untreated chronic diseases and adverse environmental factors. Various acute respiratory infections have similar development mechanisms and many common symptoms. According to localization, acute respiratory infections are usually divided into diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It is important to note that the diagnosis of “ARD” is often made when the exact nature of the respiratory system disease is not known in a person.
Infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract include rhinitis, nasopharyngitis, pharyngitis, rhinosinusitis and sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, epiglottitis. Tracheitis, bronchitis and pneumonia are diseases of the lower respiratory tract. Laryngitis occupies an intermediate position. All of these diseases can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites. Therefore, they are combined under the general term “ARI”, or “acute respiratory infection”.
Well, the name “ARVI”, or “acute respiratory viral infection”, speaks for itself. It means that the cause of the disease is viruses, and only viruses. Based on the totality of symptoms, an experienced specialist can distinguish not only the nature of the disease, but also the suspected pathogen. Laboratory diagnostic methods further clarify the picture. Hence the “different” diagnoses with seemingly similar symptoms. It should be noted that most often the cause (90% of cases) of inflammation in the respiratory tract is still an infection.
When are you more likely to catch a cold?
Every year, with the arrival of changeable autumn and cold winter weather, we are attacked by more than 200 types of viruses: coronaviruses, adenoviruses, influenza viruses, parainfluenza, etc. With reduced immunity, each virus can become a “conductor” of a bacterial infection. A noticeable surge in colds is also observed in the spring. Why is this happening?
The maximum prevalence of ARI in the autumn-spring, as well as winter months, is most often associated with hypothermia, which contributes to the development of these diseases. High-risk groups include children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic heart and lung diseases.
The source of infection is the sick person. Transmission of infection occurs through airborne droplets, as well as through contaminated hands or objects containing pathogens of respiratory infections. Therefore, if one person in a team or family has caught a cold, the rest should also take care.
Why does my throat often hurt when I have a cold?
This symptom most often appears due to damage to the mucous membrane of the oropharynx by various viruses and bacteria. It is the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and throat that is the “entry gate” for pathogenic agents. Under the influence of viruses and bacteria, the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity is damaged and a large amount of mucus is released, which flows from the nasal cavity down the back wall of the pharynx and causes coughing, developing and maintaining local inflammation. The mucous membrane of the throat swells, turns red, and becomes painful. A sore throat also occurs due to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx and its drying out with difficulty in nasal breathing and breathing through the mouth. Therefore, complaints about a sore throat should be taken seriously and the disease should not be left to chance.
Currently, in treatment programs for acute respiratory infections, accompanied by pain and sore throat, much attention is paid to pharmaceutical herbal remedies developed on the basis of modern technologies. A good choice is Tonzilgon® N (manufactured by Bionorica, Germany). Tonsilgon N is a combined preparation of plant origin, which includes: extracts of chamomile, marshmallow, horsetail, oak bark, dandelion, yarrow and walnut leaves. Together, these herbs have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. The use of the drug is also possible as an addition to therapy with antiviral or antibacterial agents.
The role of herbal medicine Tonsilgon N in acute respiratory infections
Children and adolescents suffer from acute respiratory infections 4-5 times more often than adults. This is explained by age-related imperfections of immunity and the peculiarities of the anatomy and physiology of the child. According to many medical specialists, the unstable functioning of the immune system, which is typical for children and adolescents, can be leveled out with the help of a course of taking specially developed herbal medicines. Tonsilgon N is one of these drugs. Considering that Tonsilgon N acts as an immunocorrector on the one hand and an antiseptic on the other, it is very effective in the treatment of acute and exacerbation of chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract. It reduces the severity of acute respiratory infections and the frequency of exacerbations of chronic tonsillopharyngitis.
Considering all the properties of the drug Tonzilgon N, it can be recommended both as an independent treatment of respiratory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, acute tonsillopharyngitis, exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis in children and adults, and as part of complex therapy. Its therapeutic and preventive effect on the mucous membrane of the throat can be useful in preventing complications of acute viral infections, especially in the difficult conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is important to know about Tonsilgon N?
Tonsilgon H provides a complex effect on the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. Thanks to its balanced herbal composition, it is well tolerated. Tonsilgon N is used in the treatment of acute respiratory infections, accompanied by a sore and sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and cough. The drug is convenient to use. It is available in two dosage forms: as an aqueous-alcoholic extract (drops for oral administration) and film-coated tablets. Tonsilgon N in drops is indicated for children from 2 years old, and in tablets - from 6 years old. Both forms of the drug can be taken by adults. It is important that the alcohol content in the solution ranges from 16 to 19.5% vol. (one drop of the drug contains approximately 0.008 g of pure ethyl alcohol), which is not significant in terms of the child’s body weight and does not exceed the alcohol content in one package kefir Therefore, from this point of view, the drug is safe for children. Tonsilgon N is the No. 1 drug prescribed by pediatricians among all products. It is among the TOP 10 best-selling herbal preparations in Russia. Tonsilgon N has been successfully used for more than 50 years in Germany, 20 years in Russia and 18 years in Belarus.
How to take Tonsilgon N?
The use of Tonsilgon N reduces the likelihood of complications of acute respiratory infections and the development of recurrent colds. The drug has also proven itself in the treatment of complicated ARVI. Tonsilgon N plays an important role in the treatment of frequently ill children attending preschool and school institutions. Its use is very important in the autumn-spring period, when the risk of colds increases. Dosage regimen:
| Form of the drug | How to take for children | How to take for adults |
| Drops Contraindicated for children under 2 years of age! |
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| Pills Contraindicated for children under 6 years of age! |
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Tonsilgon N is an excellent remedy for sore throat and sore throat, which also helps prevent complications from acute respiratory infections. Take it so you don't get sick!
Literature:
1. O. I. Pikuza, E. V. Generalova, I. I. Zakirov. Herbal medicine in the rehabilitation of adolescents with recurrent respiratory diseases. "Medical Almanac" No. 3, 2008
2. ARVI in children during a difficult epidemiological situation. Interview with Professor of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the Medical Institute of RUDN University, Head of the Otorhinolaryngology Center “On-Clinic”, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Irina Mikhailovna Kirichenko. "Medical Council" No. 18, 2020
3. S. O. Klyuchnikov, O. V. Zaitseva, I. M. Osmanov, A. I. Krapivkin, E. S. Keshishyan, O. V. Blinova, O. V. Bystrova. Acute respiratory diseases in children. A manual for doctors. "Russian Bulletin of Perinatology and Pediatrics", Appendix No. 3, 2008
4. A. S. Milakova, V. V. Trubnikov. Scientific supervisor – Doctor of Medical Sciences V.S. Ledneva, Ph.D. E.D. Chertok. Choice of therapy for acute respiratory diseases in children on an outpatient basis. “Russian pediatric journal” (Russian journal) No. 22(5), 2019
5. Acute respiratory infections and influenza. Prevention.
6. O. A. Malyavko. ORI. What it is?
7. Instructions for medical use of Tonsilgon N for specialists
Treatment of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections
Since acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections are caused by different factors, their treatment is not the same.
Treatment of acute respiratory diseases is difficult. Sometimes it is difficult to identify the main pathogen. To do this, a series of medical examinations are carried out. A bacterial or viral infection of the body is often diagnosed, and based on this, etiological and symptomatic therapy is prescribed.
If the cause is pathogenic bacteria, antibacterial agents are prescribed. For a viral infection, antiviral drugs are indicated. Additionally, antipyretic, expectorant, and vasoconstrictor medications are prescribed. Also aerosols, nasal drops, vitamins, plenty of warm drinks and bed rest.
It is forbidden to treat ARVI on your own for more than 3 days. In this case, the risk of complications increases. You need to see a doctor. Patients are prescribed a course of antiviral therapy. To relieve symptoms, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and antipyretic drugs are prescribed. It is useful to gargle with decoctions of medicinal plants. Navizin and Pinosol are used for a runny nose. For pain and high fever, Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are prescribed. ACC, Mucaltin and other expectorants are effective for treating cough.
It is important to maintain rest, bed rest, drink more fluids and take vitamin complexes.
Prevention. Is a flu vaccination necessary?
Vaccination is the most important preventive measure against influenza. It is carried out much earlier than the expected epidemic, usually in October–November. The protective effect of the vaccine is one year, so it must be repeated annually. There are practically no contraindications to modern vaccines. Vaccination is indicated for the following population groups (however, you should consult your doctor before undergoing it):
- Children of preschool and school age;
- elderly people (over 65 years old);
- persons with a high probability of infection (military contingents, medical personnel, workers in the sphere of consumer services, transport, educational institutions);
- patients who often suffer from ARVI;
- patients with chronic bronchopulmonary diseases (especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);
- patients with chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease;
- patients with weakened immune systems (diabetes mellitus, HIV infection, spleen removed, or receiving glucocorticoids and cytostatics).
During a flu epidemic, it is too late to administer the vaccine. In this case, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water more often and ventilate the room, wear medical masks in public transport, it is possible to use rimantadine, as well as oxolinic ointment in the nose.
Hardening procedures (rinsing the mouth and nose with cold water, walking barefoot on a cold floor, cold rubbing, dousing, etc.) are important if they are carried out for a long time and systematically. You should not start hardening if a person is sick or in the recovery stage.
