Respiratory tract infections: causes and treatment. Upper respiratory tract diseases

Respiratory system infection is the most common disease that almost every person suffers at least once a year. This diagnosis is one of the most common reasons for hospitalization and can be fatal. To prevent critical complications, it is important to diagnose the infection and treat it promptly.

What it is?

• nasal cavity;
• pharynx;
• larynx;
• trachea;
• bronchi;
• lungs.

• bacteria– , diphtheria, mycoplasmas, mycobacteria, pertussis;
• viruses- parainfluenza, adenovirus, roto- and rhinovirus, mumps, measles;
• – Aspergillus, actinomycetes, Candida.

• During communication, microparticles of saliva from a coughing and sneezing patient enter the organs, which is the carrier of the infection.
• The disease is transmitted by inhaling dust particles that contain infectious agents. Particularly resistant microorganisms are transmitted through household items - towels, dishes, toys and even furniture. These are scarlet fever, diphtheria, tonsillitis, mumps, tuberculosis. Remaining on the hands, they are subsequently transferred to the mucous membranes.

• pathologies of the liver and lungs;
• oncology.

Vaccinations aimed at developing resistance to immunity to viruses will help reduce the risk.

Classification of infections

According to the type of spread in the body, infections are divided into 4 groups:

1. Reproduction of infection at the site of introduction:

• ARVI is a group of diseases that combines catarrhal inflammation of the upper respiratory tract;
• whooping cough – is expressed by attacks of convulsive coughing and occurs mainly in children;
• measles – accompanied by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and rash on the body.

• – tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils);
• scarlet fever - manifested by a sore throat, rash and subsequent peeling of the skin;
• diphtheria - swelling of the tonsils, the formation of a white filmy coating on them, and the disease is dangerous due to intoxication of the body;
• – damage to the pharynx and lymph nodes.

• meningococcal meningitis - the disease manifests itself with a runny nose, affecting the mucous membranes of the brain and lungs;
• encephalitis of viral etiology - a complication of a generalized infectious disease that affects the brain;
• pneumonia () - a complication of a bacterial group of diseases, damage to lung tissue;
• mumps (mumps) – inflammation of the salivary glands.

• exanthema - the disease is accompanied by high fever and rashes of various types after its subsidence;
• enanthema - characterized by a rash on the mucous membranes;
• – accompanied by fever and papulovesicular rash on the body.

Acute respiratory diseases cause significant discomfort to the patient and this knocks him out of the normal rhythm of life for at least several days. The latent period can last from 2 to 10 days.

Symptoms depending on the type of infection

• itching in the nose, sneezing, runny nose (watery nasal discharge);
• , cough is possible;
• slightly elevated temperature, chills;
• headache.

• Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Symptoms include runny nose and watery eyes. In this case, yellow purulent discharge from the nose indicates the bacterial nature of the disease.
• , sinusitis, frontal sinusitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the sinuses caused by a bacterial infection. It is characterized by difficulty breathing due to swelling of the soft tissues of the nose, loss of smell, and headache.
• Tonsillitis (tonsillitis) is a lesion of the tonsils in the oropharynx area. Caused by viral and bacterial infection. Accompanied by enlarged tonsils, chills and general malaise. The presence of a yellow-green coating on the tonsils indicates a purulent sore throat.
• Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. Characterized by a sore throat, dry cough and general weakness.
• Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx. Accompanied by hoarseness, “barking” cough, heavy breathing, and fever.
• Tracheitis is a disease of the tube located between the larynx and the main bronchi. Characterized by dry cough and weakness.
• Bronchitis is a lesion of the bronchial mucosa.
• Pneumonia is inflammation of the lung tissue. Bacterial infection accompanied by high fever and cough.
• ARI, acute respiratory viral infection - a general lesion of the respiratory tract, combining several symptoms.

The main difference between a viral pathogen and a bacterial one is a sharp increase in temperature, symptoms of an infection of the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat), and heavy breathing. The presence of wheezing due to viral etiology indicates the addition of a secondary infection. When the pathogen is bacterial, there is an increasing development of the disease, yellow purulent discharge from the nose, its presence on the tonsils, dry or wet cough with sputum.

Diagnostics

• features of the development of the disease;
• symptoms;
• results of examination of the patient;
• laboratory confirmations (general blood test).

Treatment

For viral etiology of the disease, medications such as:

• Arbidol
• Kagocel
• Remantadine
• Tamiflu

• Azithromycin
• Erythromycin
• Clarithromycin
• Amoxicillin

• Ofloxacin
• Levofloxacin

• IRS-19
• Imudon
• Bronchomunal

• Cycloferon
• Grippferon
• Lavomax
• Amiksin
• Viferon

Symptomatic treatment is prescribed to improve well-being by relieving cold symptoms. Drugs are prescribed depending on the disease. For example:

• for rhinitis - Nazol, Pinosol;
• for angina - Hexoral, Tantum Verde, Faringosept;
• for cough - expectorants, mucolytics (ACC, Bromhexine, Ambroxol, Sinekod, Falimint).

Folk remedies are also widely used - the same inhalations with the addition of essential oils, taking infusions and decoctions of chamomile, sage, and thyme.

Prevention

As a preventive measure during the cold season of the year, they also take one of the following medications:

• Remantadine – 1 time per day (100 mg).
• Amiksin – 1 tablet per week.
• Dibazol – 1/4 tablet once a day.
• Arbidol (in contact with a patient) – 1 tablet 2 times a day with a break of 3-4 days, course – 3 weeks.

The following preventive measures against respiratory diseases are also distinguished:

• Consume the following foods in moderation: garlic, onions, honey, lemon, raspberries. Recommends drinking decoctions of oregano and linden.
• Wash your own and your children's hands often, especially after coughing or blowing your nose. The process should last at least 30 seconds with the obligatory use of soap. You can also use pharmaceutical alcohol-based cleansers. It is better to dry your hands with disposable towels.

  If you come into contact with someone who has symptoms, avoid touching your face (eyes, nose, mouth) before you can wash your hands.

• Avoid hypothermia and strengthen your immune system, which will require following a normal daily routine, healthy sleep and a balanced diet. In addition, walking in the fresh air, swimming and hardening, and breathing exercises are indispensable for the prevention of respiratory diseases.

Features of respiratory diseases in children

However, some children can suffer only a few mild runny noses in a year, while others will have time to catch more than 10 colds during this time. This is due to the fact that some children have a congenital predisposition to frequent acute respiratory viral infections. The reason is poor protection of the mucous membrane from viral infections. However, this does not mean the child has an immune deficiency.

The most common causes of colds are rhinoviruses, of which there are more than 100 varieties. Having had one of these infections, the body does not develop immunity to others. Diseases are also caused by coronaviruses, adenoviruses, influenza and parainfluenza.

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Description:

Upper respiratory tract infections are infections of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract from the nasal cavity to the tracheobronchial tree, with the exception of the terminal bronchioles and alveoli. Upper respiratory tract infections include viral, bacterial, fungal, and protozoal infections.

Causes:

In most cases, damage to the upper respiratory tract is of viral origin.
The etiological agents causing damage to the upper respiratory tract are different. There is a close dependence of the role of pathogens on the course of the disease: in acute rhinosinusitis and exacerbation of chronic rhinosinusitis, the main role is played by Streptococcus (Str.) pneumoniae (20–35%) and Haemophilus influenzae (H.) influenzae (nontypeable strains, 6–26% ). More severe cases of the disease are more often associated with Str. pneumoniae Much less common causes of rhinosinusitis are Moraxella (M.) catarrhalis (and other gram-negative bacilli, 0–24%), Str. pyogenes (1–3%; up to 20% in children), Staphylococcus (S.) аureus (0–8%), anaerobes (0–10%). The role of gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Proteus spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter) in acute sinusitis is minimal, but increases with nosocomial infection, as well as in persons with immunosuppression (neutropenia, AIDS) and persons receiving repeated courses of antibacterial therapy. The causative agents of odontogenic (5–10% of all cases of sinusitis) maxillary sinusitis are: H. influenzae, less commonly Str. pneumoniae, enterobacteria and non-spore-forming anaerobes.

Symptoms:

Upper respiratory tract infections can occur in the following clinical forms: sinusitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, tracheitis.

                              Viral nasopharyngitis.

The incubation period lasts 2-3 days. Symptoms of viral nasopharyngitis last up to 2 weeks. If symptoms last longer than two weeks, alternative diagnoses such as allergies or allergies should be considered.

Nasal symptoms. At the onset of the disease, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, difficulty in nasal breathing, etc. occur. Clinically significant rhinorrhea is more typical of a viral infection. But with viral nasopharyngitis, within 2 - 3 days after the onset of symptoms, nasal discharge often becomes viscous, cloudy, white to yellow-green in color (activation of the saprophytic flora living on the mucous membrane, which is normally non-pathogenic flora). Thus, the color and transparency of the discharge cannot help clearly differentiate bacterial and viral infections.

In the throat there is pain and soreness, soreness and difficulty swallowing. Sore throat, as a rule, is present already in the first days of illness and lasts only a few days. If you complain of a feeling of a lump in the throat, you should pay attention to the back wall of the pharynx and the uvula - they may be involved in the inflammatory process. Mouth breathing due to nasal congestion can lead to dry mouth, especially after sleep.

The occurrence of a cough may indicate involvement of the larynx, or as a result of irritation of the pharyngeal wall by nasal discharge (postnasal drip). usually develops on the fourth or fifth day after the onset of nasal and pharyngeal symptoms.

Viral nasopharyngitis can also be accompanied by symptoms such as:

      * Bad breath, which   occurs as a result of the release of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also occur with allergic rhinitis.
      * - loss of smell is secondary to inflammation in the nasal cavity.
      * . Observed in most cases.
      * Sinus symptoms. They include nasal congestion, a feeling of fullness and distension in the sinus area (usually symmetrically). Quite typical for viral nasopharyngitis.
      * Photophobia and    are characteristic of adenovirus and other viral infections. may be accompanied by pain in the depths of the orbit, pain with eye movement, or conjunctivitis. Itchy, watery, watery eyes are more common in allergic conditions.
      * Fever. The fever is usually mild or absent, but in newborns and infants the temperature can reach 39.4°C (103°F). The fever usually lasts only a few days. With the flu, fever can be accompanied by a temperature of 40°C (104°F) or even higher.
      * Symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract. , and diarrhea can accompany the flu, especially often in children. Nausea and abdominal pain can occur with viral acute respiratory infections and streptococcal infections.
      * Heavy. Severe muscle pain is typical of the flu, especially when accompanied by a sudden onset of sore throat accompanied by fever, chills, cough and headaches.
      * Fatigue and malaise. Any type of URTI can be accompanied by these symptoms. Complete loss of strength and exhaustion are characteristic of the flu.

                                          Bacteria.

When collecting anamnesis, it is almost impossible to make a differential diagnosis for viral and bacterial pharyngitis. If the symptoms do not go away within 10 days and gradually worsen after the first 5-7 days, it is quite possible to assume the bacterial nature of the disease. Group A hemolytic streptococcus deserves special attention as a pathogen. The presence of an episode in a personal history (especially with clinical carditis or a complicated defect), or household contact with a person who had a history of streptococcal infection, significantly increases the patient’s risk of developing acute or recurrent rheumatic fever. Suspicion of infection with group A streptococcus is confirmed by the presence of prolonged fever, as well as the absence of cough, rhinorrhea and conjunctivitis, which are more characteristic of. Bacterial pharyngitis is characterized by seasonal incidence from November to May, and also indicates the age of patients from five to fifteen years.

Pharyngeal symptoms (from the pharynx).   There is pain or sore throat, soreness and difficulty swallowing. If the uvula and the back wall of the pharynx are involved in the inflammation process, there may be a sensation of a lump in the throat. Breathing through the mouth, due to nasal congestion, leads to a feeling of dry mouth, especially in the first half of the day. The streptococcal nature of pharyngitis is characterized by a sharp onset and acute pain in the throat.

Nasal discharge. The discharge is usually viscous, mucous, whitish or yellow-green, which, however, does not always indicate a bacterial infection.

Cough. It may be due to the involvement of the mucous membrane of the larynx or upper respiratory tract in the process of inflammation, or due to nasal discharge (postnasal drip).

The following symptoms are also characteristic:

      * Bad breath. It arises as a consequence of the release of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also occur with allergic rhinitis.
      * Headache. It is typical for streptococcal (group A) and mycoplasma infections, but can also be observed with URTI of a different etiology.
      * Fatigue and general malaise. It is observed with any URTI, but a clear loss of strength is characteristic of an influenza infection.
      * Fever. The fever is usually mild or absent, but in newborns and infants the temperature can reach 39.4°C (103°F).
      * Availability. Indicative for, especially in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
      * . It is typical for streptococcal infection, but can accompany influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.
      * History of recent oral-genital sexual intercourse, which is especially important in cases of gonococcal pharyngitis.

                        Acute viral or bacterial.

The initial manifestations of sinusitis are often similar to nasopharyngitis and other viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, since the nasal cavity is anatomically connected to the paranasal sinuses, which determines the generality of the inflammatory process. Sinusitis is characterized by a two-phase progression pattern, in which initially there is a temporary improvement, then a deterioration. Unilateral localization of symptoms confirms suspicions of sinus involvement. If the inflammatory symptoms disappear completely within a week, we can hardly talk about sinusitis.

Nasal discharge. Characterized by persistent mucopurulent discharge, pale yellow or yellow-green in color, which, however, is not a defining symptom, since discharge can also be observed with uncomplicated rhinopharyngitis. Rhinorrhea is usually mild and does not respond to decongestants or antihistamines. In some patients, nasal congestion predominates. Unilateral nasal congestion and mucopurulent discharge from one nostril indicate sinusitis.

Hyposmia, or loss of smell, is secondary to inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

Pain in the area of ​​projection of the sinuses. In older children and adults, painful symptoms are usually localized in the area of ​​projection of the affected sinus. Characteristic pain is localized in the forehead, upper jaw, and infraorbital region. Inflammation of the maxillary sinus can result in toothache on the affected side. Pain radiating to the ear may indicate otitis media or peritonsillar abscess.

Oropharyngeal symptoms. A sore throat may be the result of irritation from nasal secretions running down the back of the throat. Breathing through the mouth, due to nasal congestion, leads to a feeling of dry mouth, especially after sleep and in the first half of the day.
or bad breath. It arises as a consequence of the release of waste products of pathogenic flora and products of the inflammatory process itself. Bad breath can also occur with allergic rhinitis.

Cough. Inflammatory syndrome of the upper respiratory tract is accompanied by a constant flow of nasal mucous into the throat (postnasal drip), requiring more frequent clearing of the throat, that is, accompanied by a cough. The cough that accompanies rhinosinusitis is usually present throughout the day. The cough may be most severe in the morning, after sleep, in response to irritation of the throat with secretions that have accumulated overnight. A daytime cough that lasts more than 2 weeks suggests bronchial asthma and a number of other conditions. It is also possible that coughing exclusively at night may be a characteristic symptom of some other diseases. Cough caused by inflammation of the upper respiratory tract can sometimes be accompanied by vomiting due to irritation by secretions from the base of the tongue. A clinically significant amount of purulent sputum may suggest pneumonia.

Increased body temperature. Fever is not entirely typical and is observed more often in children. The rise and fall of temperature occurs almost synchronously with the appearance and cessation of purulent discharge. In ARVI complicated by sinusitis, an increase in temperature often precedes the appearance of purulent discharge.

Fatigue and malaise occur as with any other upper respiratory tract infection.

This disease is more common in children aged 1 - 5 years, and is characterized by the sudden appearance of clinical symptoms:

1. Sore throat.
2. Drooling - difficulty or pain when swallowing, feeling of a lump in the throat.
3. - hoarseness or complete loss of voice.
4. The cough is predominantly dry, shortness of breath is observed.

Increased body temperature and weakness are observed in the same way as with other upper respiratory tract infections.
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Nasopharyngeal (nasopharyngeal) symptoms. Laryngitis and tracheitis are often preceded by nasopharyngitis for several days. Swallowing is difficult or painful, and there may be a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Cough can be of several types:

      * Dry cough. In adolescents and adults, it can manifest as a protracted, hacking, dry cough that follows the typical prodromal period of URTI. Minor hemoptysis may be present.
      * Barking cough. Laryngotracheitis or croup in children can manifest itself as a characteristic barking, so-called “copper” cough. Symptoms may be worse at night. also produces a barking cough.
      * Whooping cough is an attack of convulsive uncontrollable cough, which is characterized by noisy “moaning” sounds during inspiration and an almost complete cessation of breathing at the height of the attack. Whooping cough is more common in children. This cough often comes in coughing paroxysms of a dozen or more attacks in a row, and often worsens at night. The cough may persist for several weeks.

Posttussive symptoms are attacks of nausea and vomiting following a paroxysm of whooping cough.
- breathing disorder:

Damage to the upper respiratory tract by infection very often manifests itself in tracheitis. Moreover, this disease most often occurs during epidemics of influenza and ARVI.

Tracheitis is manifested by inflammation of the tracheal mucosa and can occur in both acute and chronic forms. According to doctors, infections are the main cause of inflammation of the trachea.

Trachea looks like a cartilaginous tube, consisting of one and a half dozen segments - rings. All segments are interconnected by ligaments of fibrous tissue. The mucous membranes of this tube are represented by ciliated epithelium. Mucous glands are present in large numbers on the membranes.

When the trachea becomes inflamed, its mucous membranes swell. There is tissue infiltration and the release of large amounts of mucus into the tracheal cavity. If the source of the disease is infection, then clearly visible pinpoint hemorrhages can be seen on the surface of the mucosa. When the disease enters the chronic stage, then the mucous membrane of the organ first hypertrophies and then atrophies. With hypertrophy, mucopurulent sputum is produced. With atrophy there is very little sputum. Moreover, the mucous membranes dry out and may even become crusty. Against this background, the patient develops a persistent dry cough.

Causes of tracheitis

Inflammation of the trachea may develop for the following reasons:

1. Infectious path of development. Various viruses and bacteria enter the upper respiratory tract and cause inflammation, which then spreads to the trachea. The disease can be caused by influenza virus, pneumococci, streptococci, staphylococci and fungi.
2. Non-infectious path of development. Inflammation of the trachea can develop due to hypothermia of the upper respiratory tract or exposure to dust, chemicals, or steam.

The likelihood of developing tracheitis is much higher if a person is exposed to the following factors:

• Climatic conditions: cold, high humidity and wind.
• Reduced immunity.
• Chronic diseases of the respiratory system.
• Having bad habits.

Infectious infection, which causes inflammation of the trachea, usually occurs upon contact with a sick person or contaminated object. By the way, the carrier of the infection may not even suspect that he is infected. He may not have any clinical manifestations of the disease.

Infection can occur through airborne droplets and household contact. For this reason, almost all people experience tracheal inflammation at least once in their lives.

Symptoms of the disease

Tracheitis can be acute or chronic. Each form of the disease has its own symptoms and characteristics.

Acute inflammation of the trachea

The disease manifests itself on the 3rd day after the onset of symptoms of inflammation of the nasopharynx and damage to the larynx. The first symptom of acute tracheitis is low-grade hyperthermia. Less commonly, body temperature can rise to 38.5 ° Celsius. Next come signs of intoxication. The patient begins to complain of weakness, pain throughout the body, and sweating. Often the patient's nose is stuffy.

A characteristic symptom of the disease is a severe dry cough that does not bring relief at night, and a morning cough that produces a large amount of sputum.

In children, inflammation of the trachea manifests itself in coughing attacks, which can be provoked by laughter, sudden movement, or a breath of cold air.

Regardless of age, a person with tracheitis begins to feel a sore throat and rawness in the sternum. Because deep breaths provoke painful coughing attacks, the patient begins to breathe shallowly.

When the larynx is involved in acute inflammation of the trachea, then the patient experiences a barking cough.

When listening to the patient's breathing using a phonendoscope, the doctor may hear dry and moist rales.

Chronic tracheitis

The disease develops into this form when the patient does not receive timely treatment for acute tracheitis. However, there are often cases when chronic inflammation of the trachea develops without an acute stage. As a rule, such a pathology is observed in people who smoke a lot and drink large amounts of alcohol. This can also happen to patients who have other chronic diseases of the respiratory system, heart and kidneys. These diseases can provoke stagnation of blood in the upper respiratory tract, which provokes the development of chronic tracheitis.

The main symptom of chronic tracheitis is cough. In the chronic form of the disease, it is painful and comes in the form of severe attacks. During the day, a person may not cough at all, but at night attacks will prevent him from falling asleep. The sputum with such a cough is often purulent.

Chronic inflammation of the trachea always occurs with periods of exacerbation, during which its symptoms become similar to those of acute tracheitis.

Complications of inflammation of the trachea

In most cases, with an isolated course, this disease does not cause any complications. However, if the disease occurs in combination, various rather dangerous complications may develop. For example, laryngeal stenosis. It is usually detected in young patients with laryngotracheitis. In adult patients with tracheobronchitis, obstruction of the upper respiratory tract may develop.

If you start treating tracheitis on time, it can be dealt with in just a couple of weeks.

Diagnosis of the disease

The diagnosis is made based on medical history and instrumental research methods. Initially, the doctor listens to the patient’s complaints, identifies concomitant diseases, and finds out the patient’s living conditions. After additional auscultation, the doctor can already make a primary diagnosis, but to clarify, he conducts several additional studies. In particular, he does laryngoscopy. With such a study, he can determine the degree of change in the tracheal mucosa: the presence of mucus, hemorrhages, infiltrates.

The patient may be prescribed a chest X-ray, sputum testing and spirometry.

A general blood test completes the diagnosis of tracheal inflammation.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment begins with medication. The fact is that in most cases this disease is caused by an infection. Therefore, medications can quickly eliminate the cause of the disease. In most cases, drug treatment prescribes broad-spectrum antibiotics. Medicines from the group of natural penicillins perform best.

If tracheitis is complicated by bronchitis, then natural penicillins are added semisynthetic antibiotics last generation.

In cases where infectious tracheitis is not complicated in any way, the following drugs are used in the treatment of the disease:

• Antitussives.
• Antiviral.
• Immunomodulators.
• Antihistamines.

It is most effective to use the above drugs in the form of aerosols. In this case, they quickly penetrate into all parts of the trachea and bronchi.

For tracheitis, the most effective medications are:

• Sumamed.
• Lazolvan.
• Berodual.
• Sinekod.
• Bioparox.

If the patient has hyperthermia, then antipyretics are prescribed for treatment. But he can only use them under the supervision of a doctor.

Tracheitis can also be treated by inhalation. For this treatment you need to use a nebulizer. This device sprays medications, but at the same time provides a concentrated effect directly on the affected areas.

According to doctors, inhalation is the most effective home treatment for tracheitis.

Tracheitis can be treated at home using the following medications:

• Regular saline solution. It provides good hydration of the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx and trachea. You can breathe it through the pores without restrictions. Moreover, it is recommended to inhale it before visiting a doctor.
• Treatment with soda solution. It perfectly thins mucus and helps you cough well.
• Regular mineral water. It provides good sputum removal for tracheitis.
• Inhalations with Lazolvan and Mukolvan. The basis of these medicines is ambroxol. Therefore, treatment can be carried out only after preliminary dilution with saline solution.
• Berodual. Treatment with this drug most effectively opens up the bronchi. In severe cases of the disease, doctors often combine Berodual with hormones.

Antibiotics in treatment inflammation of the trachea are used in the following cases:

• There are signs of developing pneumonia.
• The cough does not go away within 14 days.
• Hyperthermia occurs for several days.
• Enlarged tonsils and lymph nodes in the nose and ears.

Folk remedies are quite good at treating tracheitis. They can be combined with traditional treatments, but cannot be used as independent therapy.

For tracheitis, a hot drink consisting of from milk with honey. To prepare it, you need to heat a glass of milk and add a teaspoon of honey to it, and add a little soda.

Also, treatment of inflammation of the trachea can be carried out using rinsing solutions based on decoctions of sage, chamomile and calendula.

Physiotherapeutic treatment can effectively combat tracheitis. It includes UHF, massage and electrophoresis.

Prevention

To never encounter tracheitis you need follow simple rules:

• Strive for a healthy lifestyle.
• Temper your body regularly.
• Try not to get too cold.
• To refuse from bad habits.
• Treat upper respiratory tract diseases in a timely manner.

Attention, TODAY only!

Quite often a person suffers from inflammation of the respiratory tract. Provoking factors are hypothermia or a cold, ARVI, influenza, and various infectious diseases. If treatment is not started in a timely manner, it can result in serious complications. Is it possible to prevent the inflammatory process? What treatment options are there? Is inflammation of the respiratory organs dangerous?

Main symptoms of respiratory tract inflammation

Signs of the disease will depend on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body and the degree of damage to the respiratory tract. It is possible to identify such general signs that appear when a virus is introduced. It often leads to severe intoxication of the body:

• The temperature rises.
• A severe headache occurs.
• Sleep is disturbed.
• Muscle pain.
• Appetite decreases.
• Nausea appears, which ends in vomiting.

In severe cases, the patient is in an excited and inhibited state, consciousness is upset, and a convulsive state is observed. Separately, it is worth noting the signs that depend on which specific organ is affected:

• Inflammation of the nasal mucosa (rhinitis). First, a severe runny nose occurs, the patient constantly sneezes, and has difficulty breathing through his nose.
• Inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa (pharyngitis). The patient has a very sore throat, the patient cannot swallow.
• Inflammation of the larynx (laryngitis). The patient has a severe cough and his voice is hoarse.
• Inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis). Severe pain occurs when swallowing, the tonsils also become significantly enlarged, and the mucous membrane turns red.
• Inflammation of the trachea (tracheitis). In this case, you suffer from a dry cough that does not go away within a month.

Symptoms also depend on the pathogen that provoked the disease. If inflammation of the respiratory tract is caused by influenza, the patient's temperature rises to 40 degrees, but does not fall for three days. In this case, symptoms of rhinitis and tracheitis are most often observed.

If respiratory tract diseases are caused by parainfluenza, the temperature does not rise above 38 degrees for about 2 days. Symptoms are moderate. With parainfluenza, laryngitis most often develops.

Separately, it is worth noting adenoviral infection, which affects the respiratory tract. It most often occurs in the form of tonsillitis, pharyngitis, and also affects the digestive system and eyes.

Drug treatment of airway inflammation

In case of an inflammatory process, the attending physician prescribes:

• Antiseptic drugs - Chlorhexidine, Hexetidine, Thymol, etc.
• Antibiotics – Framycetin, Fusafungin, Polymyxin.
• Sulfonamides can be combined with anesthetics - Lidocoine, Menthol, Tetracaine.
• Hemostatic drugs, this group of drugs contains plant extracts and sometimes beekeeping products.
• Antiviral drugs – Interferon, Lysozyme.
• Vitamins A, B, C.

Bioparox – antibacterial agent

The antibiotic Bioparox has proven itself well; it is released in the form of an aerosol; with its help, acute respiratory tract infections can be effectively treated. Due to the fact that Bioparox contains aerosol particles, it immediately affects all organs of the respiratory tract, therefore it has a complex effect. Bioparox can be used to treat acute rhinosinusitis, pharyngitis, tracheobronchitis, laryngitis.

Gestetidine is an antifungal drug

This is the best medicine for treating inflammation in the pharynx. The drug is released in the form of an aerosol and rinse solution. Hexetidine is a low-toxic drug, so it can be used to treat infants. In addition to the antimicrobial effect, Hexetidine has an analgesic effect.

Traditional methods of treating respiratory inflammation

Recipes for the treatment of rhinitis

• Fresh beet juice. Drip 6 drops of fresh beet juice, this should be done in the morning, afternoon and evening. It is also recommended to use beetroot decoction for nasal instillation.
• Boiled potatoes. Cut the boiled potatoes into several parts: one is applied to the forehead, the other two parts are applied to the sinuses.
• Soda inhalation. Take 500 ml of water, add 2 tablespoons, if you are not allergic, you can add eucalyptus oil - 10 drops. The procedure is carried out at night.

Recipes for the treatment of tonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis

• Lemon. Eat one lemon at once, including the peel, and cut it before doing so. You can add sugar or honey.
• The herbal mixture is used for gargling. You need to take pharmaceutical chamomile - 2 tablespoons, eucalyptus leaves - 2 tablespoons, linden blossom - 2 tablespoons, flaxseeds - a tablespoon. Let the mixture sit for half an hour. Gargle up to 5 times a day.
• Propolis infusion. Crushed propolis – 10 grams poured into half a glass of alcohol. Leave everything for a week. Rinse three times a day. When treating, drink tea with honey and herbs.
• Remedy with egg yolks. You need to take the yolk - 2 eggs, beat it with sugar until foam forms. With the help of this product you can quickly get rid of a hoarse voice.
• Dill seeds. You need to take 200 ml of boiling water and brew a tablespoon of dill seeds in it. Leave for about 30 minutes. Drink no more than two tablespoons after eating.
• A curd compress on the throat will help relieve inflammation and irritation from the throat. After just a few procedures you will feel better.

So, in order to avoid inflammation of the respiratory organs, it is necessary to treat a cold in a timely manner. Don't think that the disease will go away on its own. If you get a runny nose, bacteria from your nose will start to drain. First they will end up in the nose, then in the pharynx, then in the larynx, trachea and bronchi. It can all end in pneumonia (pneumonia). To prevent complications, it is necessary to take action at the first symptoms, and do not forget to consult a doctor.

Inflammation of the upper respiratory tract is dangerous primarily due to complications. It can be provoked, in particular:

• bacterial infections;
• viruses;
• hypothermia;
• common cold, etc.

How the disease manifests itself in adults and children, as well as the best way to treat it, we will tell you in this article.

Read also: What antibiotics to take for pneumonia

Symptoms

In general cases, the presence of an inflammatory process in the respiratory tract is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• elevated temperature;
• headache;
• sleep problems;
• aching joints;
• aching in the muscles as after hard work;
• lack of appetite;
• nausea and often vomiting.

The latter occurs due to severe intoxication. In more complex situations, a person experiences either abnormal arousal or, on the contrary, inhibition. Clarity of consciousness is almost always lost. In rare cases, the picture is supplemented by seizures.

Read also: Symptoms and treatment of bronchopneumonia in children

Depending on the location of the primary localization of the infection, other specific signs are also detected.

In particular, if we are talking about a problem such as rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose), then at the first stage the patient:

• profuse snot appears;
• he sneezes all the time;
• As swelling develops, breathing becomes difficult.

Pharyngitis is an acute throat disease. A clear sign of the disease are:

• difficulty swallowing;
• pain;
• feeling of a lump;
• itching in the palate.

Laryngitis is an inflammation that affects the larynx. Its consequences are:

• dry irritating cough;
• hoarseness;
• coating on the tongue.

Tonsillitis is a process that specifically affects the tonsils. The latter noticeably increase in size, which interferes with normal swallowing. The mucous membranes in this area become red and inflamed. It is also a pathology that affects the upper respiratory tract - tracheitis. This disease has a very characteristic symptom - a dry, painful cough that sometimes does not go away for a month.

The development of parainfluenza is evidenced, first of all, by a relatively low temperature for viral infections, which does not exceed 38 degrees. Hyperemia usually persists for 2 days in the presence of symptoms common to the group under consideration, but not too severe. Almost always, the disease mentioned above becomes the background for the development of laryngitis.

It is also worth mentioning adenovirus infection. It also mainly affects the respiratory tract and gradually leads to the development of:

• pharyngitis;
• tonsillitis.

Moreover, the digestive system and organs of vision often suffer from it.

Treatment with drugs

To combat pathologies of this type, the doctor usually prescribes a set of drugs that can quickly improve the patient’s condition.

For local effects on foci of inflammation, it is advisable to use the following fairly effective medications:

• Thymol;
• Chlorhexidine;
• Furacilin;
• Hexetidine.

If there is a bacterial infection, antibiotics (tablets or sprays) are prescribed:

• Polymyxin;
• Framycetin;
• Fusafungin.

To reduce the severity of sore throat, the following anesthetics are allowed:

• Tetracaine;
• Lidocaine.

Preparations containing menthol and eucalyptus oil perfectly alleviate discomfort.

To combat viruses the following is prescribed:

• Lysozyme;
• Interferon.

General strengthening vitamin complexes are also useful for strengthening the immune system. For young children, plant-based preparations should be used, as well as those containing bee products.

Among modern medicines, it is worth highlighting the antibiotic Bioparox. This product is produced in aerosol form and is used for inhalation. Due to the fact that the drug goes directly to the source of inflammation, even very acute ailments are treated quickly. The medicine is indicated in situations where:

• laryngitis;
• tracheobronchitis;
• pharyngitis;
• rhinosinusitis.

Often the causative agent is some kind of fungal infection. Hexetidine will help here. This product is supplied to pharmacies in the form:

• spray;
• rinse solution.

ethnoscience

If we are talking about rhinitis, then freshly squeezed beetroot juice will help. It must be instilled directly into the nose every 4 hours.

Warm boiled potatoes can also reduce the severity of symptoms. To do this, its slices are placed:

• on the forehead;
• to the nostrils.

Inhalation is a fairly simple but extremely effective procedure. Here you will need:

• half a liter of hot water;
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda;
• eucalyptus oil no more than 10 drops.

It is recommended to breathe healing steam before going to bed. Knowledgeable people also advise eating crushed lemon mixed with a few tablespoons of natural honey at night. In one sitting, you need to consume the whole fruit, including the peel, at once.

Rinsing with a decoction based on the following medicinal herbs, taken in equal parts, also helps:

• chamomile;
• Linden;
• eucalyptus leaves;
• mint.

A collection of 6 tablespoons is poured into boiling water and kept in a thermos for an hour. It is recommended to use the drug at least 5 times a day. Propolis tincture relieves inflammation well. To do this, take 10 grams of the product and add it to half a glass of alcohol. Infuse the medicine for a week in a dark place, shaking daily. Also used for rinsing, diluting 10-15 drops with half a glass of warm water.

Egg yolks relieve sore throats. 2 pieces are ground with sugar to a thick white foam and eaten slowly.

A decoction of dill seed is taken after meals, two tablespoons. Prepare it like this:

• a glass of hot water is placed in a water bath;
• pour dried raw materials;
• heat for 5 minutes, without bringing to a boil;
• stand for up to half an hour.

Upper respiratory tract diseases are common throughout the world and affect every fourth person. These include sore throat, laryngitis, pharyngitis, adenoiditis, sinusitis and rhinitis. The peak of diseases occurs in the off-season, when cases of inflammatory processes become widespread. The reason for this is acute respiratory diseases or the influenza virus. According to statistics, an adult suffers up to three cases of the disease, while a child experiences inflammation of the upper respiratory tract up to 10 times a year.

Causes

There are three main reasons for the development of various types of inflammation.

1. Virus. Influenza strains, rotoviruses, adenoviruses, mumps and measles, when they enter the body, cause a reaction in the form of inflammation.
2. Bacteria. The cause of a bacterial infection can be pneumococcus, staphylococcus, mycoplasma, meningococcus, mycobacteria and diphtheria, as well as pertussis.
3. Fungus. Candida, aspergillus, actinomycetes cause a local inflammatory process.

Most of the listed pathogenic organisms are transmitted from humans. Bacteria and viruses are unstable to the environment and practically do not live there. Some strains of the virus or fungi can live in the body, but manifest themselves only when the body's defenses are reduced. Infections occur during the period of activation of “dormant” pathogenic microbes.

Among the main methods of infection are:

• airborne transmission;
• by everyday means.

Virus particles, as well as microbes, penetrate through close contact with an infected person. Transmission is possible through talking, coughing, sneezing. All this is natural in diseases of the respiratory tract, because the first barrier to pathogenic microorganisms is the respiratory tract.

Tuberculosis, diphtheria and E. coli often enter the host's body through household means. Household and personal hygiene items become the link between a healthy and an infected person. Anyone can get sick, regardless of age, gender, financial status and social status.

Symptoms

The symptoms of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract are quite similar, with the exception of discomfort and pain, which are localized in the affected area. It is possible to determine the location of inflammation and the nature of the disease based on the symptoms of the disease, but it is possible to confirm the disease and identify the pathogen only after a thorough examination.

All diseases have an incubation period that lasts from 2 to 10 days, depending on the pathogen.

Rhinitis

Known to everyone as a runny nose, rhinitis is an inflammatory process of the nasal mucosa. Characteristic of rhinitis is exudate in the form of a runny nose, which, when microbes multiply, comes out abundantly. Both sinuses are affected, as the infection spreads quickly.
Sometimes rhinitis may not cause a runny nose, but, on the contrary, may manifest as severe congestion. If, nevertheless, discharge is present, then its nature directly depends on the pathogen. Exudate can be a clear liquid, and sometimes purulent discharge and a green color.

Sinusitis

Inflammation of the sinuses resolves as a secondary infection and is manifested by difficulty breathing and a feeling of congestion. Swelling of the sinuses causes headaches, has a negative effect on the optic nerves, and affects the sense of smell. Discomfort and pain in the area of ​​the bridge of the nose indicate an advanced inflammatory process. The discharge of pus is usually accompanied by fever and fever, as well as general malaise.

Angina

The inflammatory process in the area of ​​the palatine tonsils in the pharynx causes a number of characteristic symptoms:

• pain when swallowing;
• difficulty eating and drinking;
• elevated temperature;
• muscle weakness.

A sore throat can occur as a result of both a virus and a bacteria entering the body. In this case, the tonsils swell and a characteristic coating appears on them. With purulent tonsillitis, the palate and mucous membrane of the throat are covered with yellow and greenish deposits. With fungal etiology, a white plaque with a curd-like consistency.

Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the throat is manifested by sore throat and dry cough. Breathing may be difficult at times. General malaise and low-grade fever are not permanent phenomena. Pharyngitis usually occurs against the background of influenza and acute respiratory infection.

Laryngitis

Inflammation of the larynx and vocal cords also develops against the background of influenza, measles, whooping cough and parainfluenza. Laryngitis is characterized by hoarseness and cough. The mucous membrane of the larynx swells so much that it interferes with breathing. Without treatment, laryngitis can cause stenosis of the laryngeal walls or muscle spasm. Without treatment, symptoms only get worse.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchi (this is the lower part of the respiratory tract) is characterized by mucus discharge or a strong dry cough. In addition, bronchitis is characterized by symptoms of general intoxication and malaise. At the initial stage, symptoms may not appear until the inflammation reaches the nerve processes.

Pneumonia

Inflammation of the lung tissue in the lower and upper parts of the lung, which is usually caused by pneumococci, is always accompanied by signs of general intoxication, fever and chills. As pneumonia progresses, the cough intensifies, but sputum may appear much later. If it is non-infectious, symptoms may not appear. The symptoms are similar to an advanced cold and the disease is not always diagnosed on time.

Therapy methods

After clarifying the diagnosis, treatment begins in accordance with the general condition of the patient and the cause of the inflammation. Three main types of treatment are considered:

• pathogenetic;
• symptomatic;
• etiotropic.

Pathogenetic treatment

It is based on stopping the development of the inflammatory process. To do this, immunostimulating drugs are used so that the body itself can fight the infection, as well as auxiliary treatment that suppresses the inflammatory process.

To strengthen the body, take:

• Anaferon;
• Amexin;
• Neovir;
• Levomax.

They are suitable for children and adults. Treating upper respiratory tract diseases without immune support is pointless. If the causative agent of inflammation of the respiratory system is a bacterium, treatment is carried out with Immudon or Bronchomunal. For individual indications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used. They relieve general symptoms and suppress pain; this is important, especially if you are treating a child who is having a hard time with the disease.

Etiotropic method

Based on pathogen suppression. It is important to stop the reproduction of the virus and bacteria in the upper sections, as well as to prevent their spread. The main thing is to accurately establish the strain of the virus and the etiology of pathogenic microbes in order to choose the right regimen and begin treatment. Among the antiviral drugs, the following should be highlighted:

• Remantadine;
• Relenz;
• Arbidol;
• Kagocel;
• Isoprinosine.

They only help when the disease is caused by a virus. If you can't kill it, as is the case with herpes, you can simply suppress the symptoms.

Bacterial inflammation of the respiratory tract can only be cured with antibacterial drugs; the dosage must be prescribed by a doctor. These medications are very dangerous if used rashly and can cause irreparable harm to the body.

For a child, such treatment can lead to complications in the future. Therefore, when choosing a drug, special attention is paid to the patient’s age, his physiological characteristics, and a test is carried out for the presence of allergic reactions. Modern pharmacology offers effective drugs from the group of macrolides, beta-lactams and fluoroquinolones for treatment.

Symptomatic treatment

Since antibacterial or antifungal treatment has a gradual effect in most cases of the disease, it is important to suppress the symptoms that cause discomfort to the person. For this there is symptomatic treatment.

1. Nasal drops are used to suppress a runny nose.
2. To relieve a sore throat and reduce swelling, use broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal topical sprays.
3. Symptoms such as cough or sore throat can be suppressed with expectorants.

With severe swelling of the upper and lower parts of the lungs, symptomatic treatment does not always have the desired result. It is important not to use all known treatment methods, but to choose the right regimen based on the comprehensive elimination of symptoms and the causative agent of inflammation.

Inhalation will help relieve swelling, suppress cough and soreness in the upper throat, and stop a runny nose. And traditional methods of treatment can improve breathing and prevent oxygen starvation.

The main thing is not to self-medicate, but to undergo it under the supervision of a specialist and follow all his recommendations.

Article outline

Description

The respiratory system is the interconnected organs of the human body that provide inhalation of oxygen, gas exchange in the blood, and the release of carbon dioxide. The human respiratory system consists of:

• Upper respiratory tract;
• Lower respiratory tract;
• Lungs.

The respiratory system begins to function at the moment of birth, and ends its functioning after the death of a person. The operation of the presented system is to perform the following functions:

• Thermoregulation of the human body;
• Ability to talk;
• Ability to distinguish odors;
• Humidifies the air that a person inhales;
• Takes part in lipid and salt metabolism.

In addition, the clarity of the structure of the respiratory system performs an important function in the immune system, providing additional protection for the human body from the environment. There are several types of breathing, such as:

• Breast, which is most often present in females;
• Abdominal, which is most often present in males.

The upper respiratory tract is located in the human head and consists of the following basic elements:

• Nose;
• Parts of the oral cavity;
• Oropharynx;
• Nasal pharynx.

At the moment of inhalation, the air first ends up in the nose, and it is there that the first stage of its purification takes place, which takes place with the help of hairs. A mesh consisting of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa warms the air that is inhaled by a person.

Droplets of mucus in a person's nose have a moisturizing effect. In this way, the air is prepared for the conditions that prevail in the human lungs.

After this, the air passes to the pharyngeal cavity, which in turn is divided into several sections. Moreover, it is in this place that the paths of the respiratory system and the esophagus intersect. The air a person inhales passes down the throat to the lower respiratory tract.

Today, there are a huge number of diseases of the respiratory system of the human body, and each of them in one way or another causes some discomfort to the patient, thereby complicating his life.

Some of the most common symptoms of respiratory disease are, for example, a runny nose and cough, and some symptoms can even be fatal. The functioning of the respiratory system must be stable, because deviation from the norm can lead to clinical death, as well as irreversible changes in the human brain.

As a rule, such well-known diseases as:

• Pharyngitis;
• Angina;
• Tonsillitis;
• Acute respiratory disease;
• tracheitis;
• acute respiratory viral disease;
• sinusitis;
• rhinitis;
• laryngitis.

Symptoms

One of the most common diseases of the upper respiratory tract is considered to be acute symptoms of inflammation. The disease presented has many names, such as acute respiratory disease or respiratory viral disease. Most often, inflammation of the respiratory tract occurs for the following reasons:

• influenza virus;
• rhinoviruses;
• enteroviruses;
• streptococcus;
• mycoplasma;
• meningococcus;
• severe hypothermia of the human body;
• colds.

Typically, inflammation of the upper respiratory tract is manifested by symptoms that are caused by the penetration of a virus that causes intoxication of the entire body as a whole. What are the symptoms of this disease?

So, the main symptoms of the upper respiratory tract:

• Strong headache;
• Poor sleep;
• High temperature;
• Prostration;
• Pain in the muscles;
• Poor appetite;
• Vomiting;
• Convulsions;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Pain when eating;
• The whole body hurts;
• Dry throat;
• Sore throat;
• The appearance of hoarseness;
• Enlarged lymph nodes;
• The appearance of white spots on the tonsils;
• Fever;
• Body temperature can reach 39⁰С;
• Brief loss of consciousness;
• Weakened reaction;
• Increased or, conversely, decreased activity.

For example, rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, which causes a severe runny nose, difficulty breathing, and frequent sneezing. Pharyngitis is called inflammation of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, and there are acute and chronic forms of the disease.

With pharyngitis, a certain soreness and pain when eating food is noticed. Laryngitis is called laryngitis, which can spread to the vocal cords and is accompanied by hoarseness, as well as a barking cough.

Tonsillitis refers to an infectious disease that manifests itself in acute inflammation of the lymphadenoid rings of the pharynx, usually the tonsils. With this disease, there is an enlargement of the tonsils, redness of the mucous membranes and pain when eating food. Tracheitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the trachea, which causes a dry cough and heaviness in the chest.

Treatment

Inflammation of the respiratory tract is not one of the most serious diseases, and therefore treatment is not very difficult. What is the treatment for airway inflammation? When treating laryngitis, doctors recommend less strain on the vocal cords. The most important thing in the treatment of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis is to exclude from your diet foods that can irritate the throat.

That is, get rid of sour, salty, hot, cold and spicy foods. It is also contraindicated to drink alcoholic beverages and smoke, since tobacco smoke and alcohol also lead to irritation of the mucous membranes.

If you have a sore throat, you need to drink plenty of fluids, and the ideal option would be to drink vitamin drinks, such as rosehip infusions or berry fruit drinks.

Antipyretic drugs are used to reduce body levels. As a rule, the doctor prescribes drugs that include interferon and lysozyme, as well as mineral and vitamin complexes.

Naturally, if the disease is bacterial, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, but taking them at your own discretion is strictly contraindicated, since you may incorrectly analyze the symptoms that have arisen and decide on treatment.

Treatment of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis with antibiotics is necessary only for acute forms, and for chronic pharyngitis, the use of antibiotics is generally necessary to prevent the occurrence of various complications of the disease.

Incorrect or inadequate treatment of the acute form of the disease, inflammation of the respiratory tract can progress to chronic forms. Moreover, pay attention to the fact that the chronic form has less pronounced symptoms than the acute form.

Therefore, with this form of the disease, they do not look too much at the symptoms, but treat the disease itself, thereby muffling the symptoms. Since bacterial pharyngitis can become chronic, we will also consider its treatment methods.

Treatment of chronic forms of inflammation of the respiratory tract is quite lengthy, since it includes not only the elimination of foci of infection, but also the simultaneous treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, disorders of the endocrine systems and many other things.

As a rule, the hypertrophic form of a chronic disease is treated by cauterization of lymphoid tissue using electric current or cold. And the treatment of the atrophic form of the disease consists of increasing mucus secretion and reducing the level of dry throat, as well as stimulating the regenerative processes of the mucous membranes.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of this disease, you need to use the following methods of prevention:

• Temper the body;
• Give up bad habits such as alcohol abuse and smoking.
• Restore impaired nasal breathing;
• Strengthen immunity.

• Do not buy various cough drops as they are a waste of money. They cannot cure the throat, but only ease the discomfort.
• There is no need to rely only on gargling. In addition, inflammation of the mucous membranes with chronic pharyngitis cannot be treated at all by rinsing with a soda solution, as this greatly dries out and complicates the treatment of the disease.
• There is no need to use nasal drops very often. Frequent use of nasal drops can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat as the drops flow from the nose into the throat.

-k

Video

The video talks about how to quickly cure a cold, flu or acute respiratory viral infection. Opinion of an experienced doctor.

Attention, TODAY only!

Preferanskaya Nina Germanovna
Art. Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacology, MMA named after. THEM. Sechenova, Ph.D.

The duration of treatment is halved when starting treatment in the first 2 hours after the appearance of the first clinical signs of an acute inflammatory process, while starting treatment only a day after the first symptoms of the disease increases both the duration of treatment and the number of drugs used. Topical medications show a faster initial effect than systemic medications. The use of these drugs allows early treatment to begin; they also affect the prodramatic period of the disease and have a preventive effect on patients. Recently, the effectiveness of these drugs has significantly increased, their spectrum of activity has expanded, their selective tropism and bioavailability have improved, while maintaining their high safety.

Drugs with mucolytic and expectorant effects

Evacuation of accumulated sputum and easier breathing are facilitated by herbal remedies containing active substances from thermopsis, marshmallow, licorice, creeping thyme (thyme), fennel, anise oil, etc. Currently, combination preparations of plant origin are especially popular. Widely used preparations: containing thyme - bronchicum(elixir, syrup, lozenges), Tussamag(syrup and drops), stoptussin syrup, bronchipret; containing licorice, syrups - Dr. MOM, links; containing guaifenesin ( Ascoril, Coldrex-Broncho). Pertussin, has expectorant and cough softening properties: enhances bronchial secretion and accelerates the evacuation of sputum. Contains liquid thyme extract or liquid thyme extract 12 parts and potassium bromide 1 part. Prospan, Gedelix, Tonsilgon, contain extract from ivy leaves. Pharmacies offer lozenges with sage, lozenges with sage and vitamin C. Fervex cough medicine containing ambroxol. Tussamag balm against colds, contains pine bud and eucalyptus oil. Has anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects. Apply to rub into the skin of the chest and back 2-3 times a day.

Erespal is available in the form of film-coated tablets containing 80 mg of fenspiride hydrochloride and syrup - 2 mg of fenspiride hydrochloride per 1 ml. The drug contains licorice root extract. Erespal counteracts bronchoconstriction and has an anti-inflammatory effect in the respiratory tract, involving various mechanisms involved, and has a papaverine-like antispasmodic effect. Reduces swelling of the mucous membrane, improves sputum discharge and reduces sputum hypersecretion. For children, the drug is prescribed in the form of syrup at the rate of 4 mg/kg body weight per day, i.e. children weighing up to 10 kg - 2-4 teaspoons of syrup (10-20 ml) per day, over 10 kg - 2-4 tablespoons of syrup (30-60 ml) per day.

These drugs are used for productive cough, for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, as well as for complications (tracheitis, bronchitis) and chronic obstructive respiratory diseases.

Drugs with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects
Falimint, Toff plus, Agisept, Fervex, Dr. Theiss with echinacea extract and etc.

Coldrex LariPlus, a long-acting combination drug. Chlorpheniramine has an antiallergic effect, eliminates lacrimation, itching in the eyes and nose. Paracetamol has an antipyretic and analgesic effect: it reduces the pain syndrome observed during colds - sore throat, headache, muscle and joint pain, and reduces high temperature. Phenylephrine has a vasoconstrictor effect - reduces swelling and hyperemia of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and paranasal sinuses. Drugs similar in composition and pharmacological action Coldrex, Coldrex Hotrem, Coldex Teva.

Rinza contains 4 active ingredients: paracetamol + chlorpheniramine + caffeine + mesaton. Has a wide range of action. It is used for colds of the upper respiratory tract, accompanied by fever, headache, and runny nose.

Preparations with antibacterial and antimicrobial effects

Bioparox, Ingalipt, Grammidin, Hexaral, Stopangin and etc.

Among the antibacterial drugs, one should highlight Locabiotal (Bioparox) in the form of an aerosol, a combination drug Polydex, prescribed to children from 2.5 years of age.

Gramicidin S(grammidin) is a polypeptide antibiotic that increases the permeability of the microbial cell membrane and disrupts its stability, which leads to the death of microbes. Salivation and cleansing of the oropharynx from microorganisms and inflammatory exudate increases. Allergic reactions are possible when taking the drug; before use, it is necessary to test for sensitivity.

Inhalipt an aerosol for topical use containing soluble sulfonamides - streptocide and norsulfazole, which have an antimicrobial effect on gram “+” and gram “--” bacteria. Eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil, thymol have a softening and anti-inflammatory effect.

To prevent influenza and viral rhinitis, oxolinic ointment is used. 0.25% ointment is used to lubricate the nasal mucosa in the morning and evening during an influenza epidemic and upon contact with patients; the duration of use is determined individually (up to 25 days).

Faringosept contains 10 mg of ambazone monohydrate in 1 tablet, applied perlintually (sucking). The tablet dissolves slowly in the mouth. The optimal therapeutic concentration in saliva is achieved by taking 3-5 tablets per day for 3-4 days. Adults: 3-5 tablets per day for 3-4 days. Children 3-7 years old: daily 1 tablet 3 times a day. Used to treat diseases of the ENT organs. It has a bacteriostatic effect on streptococci and pneumococci, has antimicrobial activity without affecting E. coli.

Antiseptic drugs

Hexoral, Yox, Lizobakt, Strepsils, Sebidin, Neo-angin N, Grammidin with antiseptic, Antisept-angin, Astrasept, Fervex for sore throat, etc.

Septolete, lozenges for complete resorption, containing benzalkonium chloride, which has a wide spectrum of action. Effective primarily against gram-positive bacteria. It also has a powerful fungicidal effect on Candida albicans and some lipophilic viruses, pathogenic microorganisms that cause infections of the mouth and pharynx. Benzalkonium chloride contains the drug Tantum Verde.

Laripront for the treatment of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat and larynx. The drug contains two active ingredients: lysozyme hydrochloride and dequalinium chloride. Thanks to lysozyme, a natural protective factor for the mucous membrane, the drug has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects. Dequalinium is a local antiseptic, increases the sensitivity of infectious agents to lysozyme and promotes the penetration of the latter into tissues. Prescribe 1 tablet for adults, 1/2 tablet for children every 2 hours after meals, keep the tablets in the mouth until completely absorbed. Use until signs of the disease disappear. For the purpose of prevention, the dose of the drug is reduced to half or up to 1, twice a day.

Original classic version Strepsils(Strepsils), containing amylmetacresol, dichlorobenzyl alcohol and anise and peppermint oils, is available in lozenges. Has an antiseptic effect. Strepsils with honey and lemon soothes throat irritation. They produce Strepsils with vitamin C and Strepsils without sugar with lemon and herbs. Using a combination of menthol and eucalyptus soothes a sore throat and reduces nasal congestion.

Drugs with local anesthetic action

Strepsils plus, is a combination drug containing the anesthetic lidocaine for rapid pain relief and two broad-spectrum antiseptic components to treat infection. Lozenges provide a long-lasting local anesthetic effect - up to 2 hours, effectively relieve pain, while simultaneously suppressing the activity of pathogens of respiratory diseases.

Lozenges Drill, indicated for use in adults and children over 12 years of age, contains in one lozenge as an anesthetic substance that soothes pain, tetracaine hydrochloride 200 mcg and an anesthetic to suppress infection - chlorhexidine bigluconate 3 mg.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Faringomed used as a symptomatic remedy for acute and chronic inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs (tonsillitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis). The drug reduces the severity of disorders such as sore throat, swelling of the mucous membranes, itching and soreness in the nose; facilitates nasal breathing. Take one caramel - keep it in your mouth until completely dissolved. Children under 5 years of age should take the drug no more than four times a day, the rest - no more than six. For exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis or pharyngitis, not accompanied by high fever and acute sore throat, 2 doses of the drug per day are enough - one caramel in the morning and in the evening for 7-10 days.

Sea buckthorn, Dr. Theiss lozenges, have general strengthening properties. They contain calcium and magnesium to normalize energy metabolism and the process of enzyme formation in the body. Blackcurrant, Dr. Theiss lozenges, have a beneficial effect on throat irritation, and supplement the daily requirement of vitamin C. Contains natural blackcurrant extract. Phytopastils with Dr. Theiss's honey, have a beneficial effect on coughs, throat irritation, hoarseness, and colds in the upper respiratory tract. Refreshes the oral cavity.

Strepfen- a drug for sore throat containing the anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen 0.75 mg in lozenges. Reduces inflammation of the mucous membrane of the throat, eliminates pain. Duration of effect is 3 hours.

Having a mixed, combined effect

Faringosept, Carmolis, Solutan, Faringopils, Ledinets Carmolis, Foringolid, Travesil and etc.

The complex bronchosecretolytic drug Bronchosan contains essential oils that have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, and anise and fennel oil enhance the expectorant effect of bromhexine, increasing the activity of the ciliated epithelium and the evacuation function of the respiratory tract.

Anti-angina, has a bactericidal, antifungal, local analgesic and restorative effect due to its active components: chlorhexidine - an antiseptic from the group of bis-biguanides, which have a bactericidal effect against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (streptococci, staphylococci, pneumococci, corynebacteria, influenza bacillus, Klebsiella). Chlorhexidine also suppresses certain groups of viruses. Tetracaine is an effective local anesthetic that quickly relieves or reduces pain. Ascorbic acid plays an important role in regulating redox processes, carbohydrate metabolism, blood clotting, tissue regeneration, participates in the synthesis of corticosteroids, collagen, and normalizes capillary permeability. It is a natural antioxidant and increases the body's resistance to infections.

The arsenal of drugs used for topical use in diseases of the upper respiratory tract is quite diverse and the sooner the patient starts using them, the faster he can cope with the infection without possible subsequent complications.