Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI): Causes, Symptoms and Home remedies
2024-10-17 00:00:00
Infection is common due to change in weather which leads to a lot of seasonal problems including cold and flu. These are often caused by upper respiratory tract infections & can happen to anyone. It is an infection that affects the upper parts of the respiratory system & should not be ignored as a mere sign of changing weather. It causes discomfort in eating, drinking and breathing to the patient. The respiratory system or respiratory tract starts from the nose and extends to the alveoli (the smallest functional unit of the lungs). On the basis of embryological development, the respiratory system is divided into two parts i.e, Upper respiratory system and the lower respiratory system. Let us study the two in some detail below.
Upper respiratory system-
It extends from the nose to the voice box through the cricoid cartilage present in the throat. The infection that occurs in this part affects the nose, sinuses, esophagus, throat, bronchi, and trachea (breathing tube). Its symptoms are usually similar to those of the common cold which can also be cured with home remedies.
Lower respiratory system-
The lower respiratory tract starts from under the cricoid cartilage and extends to the alveoli. This infection usually affects the lower parts of the respiratory system. This infection lasts anywhere between 3-4 days. In some cases, it can lead to a more serious illness such as a sinus infection or pneumonia.
How is this infection transmitted?
The problem of URTI mostly occurs during rainy and winter days because the agents of URTI thrive in low humidity, which is often a feature of winters. Small droplets of fluid containing the cold causing virus are passed into the air when a person sneezes or coughs. If a person comes into contact with it, then this virus enters through their breath and infects that person. It is also spread from one infected person to another uninfected person through contact with saliva or respiratory secretions (such as mucus). In addition, URTIs can also be spread through contact with objects, such as toys or drinking glasses, that have been infected by a sick person.
Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection are similar to those of the common cold such as:
- Runny nose
- Prickling or pain in the throat
- Mild fever
- Blocked nose
- Inflammation in the nose
- Sore throat or pain
- Swelling under the eyes or around the cheeks
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing sounds while breathing
- Chest tightness or pain
- Yellowish or foul-smelling mucus discharge from the nose
- Enlargement or swelling of tonsils
Risk factors for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
- Breathing in chemical fumes or polluted air
- Overcrowded places
- Physical contact during travel
- Smoking and passive smoking
- Cocaine
- Stress
Prevention methods for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap
- Take special care of your hygiene after coughing, sneezing, or using toilet
- Get enough sleep and rest well
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Drink lukewarm water
- Take steam regularly
- Do not smoke
- Avoid going to an infected and polluted environment
- Avoid eating oily or fatty foods
- Do not consume ice cream, curd, or ice water at all
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Do yoga and exercise regularly every day
Home remedies for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Ginger tea-
Ginger tea is effective for respiratory tract infections because ginger has antibacterial properties, which helps remove throat infections. For this, crush ginger and boil it in water to make tea. Now sip this tea. Doing so provides relief.
Black pepper tea-
Intake of tea made from black pepper for upper respiratory tract infections is considered good because black pepper has antioxidant properties, & is a natural pain reliever that helps relieve sore throat and pain.
Mulethi-
Mulethi is a natural remedy for sore throats. Taking a decoction made from the root of mulethi provides relief from respiratory problems.
Eucalyptus leaves-
Eucalyptus leaves are considered one of the natural remedies for respiratory infections. Boil some eucalyptus leaves in water and cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam. It is helpful in reducing the symptoms of sore throats and respiratory infections.
Turmeric Milk-
Turmeric milk is one of the best home remedies to get rid of respiratory tract infections. Consuming one spoon of turmeric in hot milk prevents infection as turmeric has the ability to cure infections.
Garlic oil-
Garlic has antibacterial properties which helps to remove respiratory infections. For this, taking a few drops of garlic oil mixed with water is beneficial.