Causes of bacterial infection in acute upper respiratory tract infections
Sep 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Bacterial acute upper respiratory tract infections are primarily characterized by local and other associated symptoms. Nasal symptoms may include sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery nasal discharge. Patients may also experience cough, dry throat, throat irritation, and burning pain. Sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose typically appear at the onset of illness or within a few hours, with nasal discharge becoming more severe after 2–3 days.
Acute upper respiratory tract bacterial infections are primarily characterized by local symptoms and other associated symptoms.
I. Local Symptoms
1. Nasal Symptoms
Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and clear nasal discharge. They may also manifest as cough, sore throat, throat itching, or a burning pain. Sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose typically appear at the onset of illness or within a few hours. After 2–3 days, nasal discharge often worsens and is frequently accompanied by sore throat, reduced sense of taste, respiratory distress, hoarseness, and other symptoms.
2. Pharyngeal Symptoms
Examination reveals obvious pharyngeal congestion, swollen and congested tonsils with yellowish pinpoint exudates on the surface, and enlarged submandibular lymph nodes. Symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, and irritative cough are commonly seen in pharyngitis, laryngitis, epiglottitis, and tonsillitis. In cases of tonsillitis, yellow purulent secretions may be observed.
II. Other Symptoms
1. Sinusitis may be accompanied by headache and facial pain. Chronic inflammation can lead to additional symptoms such as reduced or lost sense of smell, dizziness, tinnitus, and impaired vision.
2. Complete blood count (CBC) tests typically show a significant increase in white blood cells and neutrophils.
3. In chronic tonsillitis, excessive tonsillar hypertrophy may cause difficulty breathing, snoring during sleep, and difficulty swallowing.
Patients with acute bacterial upper respiratory tract infections must seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment under a physician's guidance. It is important to maintain indoor ventilation and fresh air. Drink warm water to ensure adequate hydration and keep the airways moist. Rest well, enhance your immune resistance, and effectively prevent infections.
