Upper respiratory infection
Upper Respiratory Infection
Upper respiratory infection (pronunciation: UH-per res-pi-ra-tor-ee in-FEK-shun), often abbreviated as URI, is a type of infection that affects the components of the upper respiratory tract. The upper respiratory tract includes the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx. These infections can be caused by various bacteria or viruses.
Etymology
The term "Upper respiratory infection" is derived from the Latin words 'superior' meaning 'upper', 'respirare' meaning 'to breathe', and 'infectio' meaning 'infection'.
Types of Upper Respiratory Infections
There are several types of upper respiratory infections, including:
- Common cold: This is the most common type of URI, and it is usually caused by rhinoviruses.
- Sinusitis: This is an infection of the sinuses that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
- Pharyngitis: This is an infection of the pharynx, often referred to as a sore throat.
- Laryngitis: This is an infection of the larynx, or voice box.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection can vary depending on the specific type of infection, but they often include:
Treatment
Treatment for an upper respiratory infection typically involves managing symptoms and supporting the body's immune system. This can include rest, hydration, over-the-counter medications, and in some cases, antibiotics or antiviral drugs.
Prevention
Prevention of upper respiratory infections primarily involves good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping the immune system strong through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Upper respiratory infection
- Wikipedia's article - Upper respiratory infection
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