Respiratory tract infections more common in winter

The cold of winter makes our health more vulnerable, which is why an increase in respiratory infections is so common during these months. It is worth mentioning that more than 70% of these cases have been sent to the emergency room.

Francisco Sanchez Molinaemergency services supervisor Chiron Salud Hospital of Córdobaemphasizing “Don’t forget Protective measures we took at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic And they have been shown to be significantly effective in reducing infections.

What are the causes of these infections in winter?

We can spot one of the most common viral infections in winter Colds, Flu and Covid 19. One of the main factors for infection is cold, since cold causes dryness of the nasal mucosa and reduces its protective function against different viruses in the environment.

also, low temperature It can also have negative effects on our bodies. It was also added that in winter people usually go to enclosed spaces with large crowds of people, which facilitates the spread of the virus.

Seven respiratory infections you should recognize in winter

Doctors Ángel Delgado Zamorano and Francisco Sánchez Molina from Quirónsalud Córdoba Hospital tell us about the different infections that usually occur in winter, their main symptoms and treatments:

1. Common cold

this disease This is the most common situation in winter

Can be caused by a variety of respiratory viruses. When this happens, inflammation occurs in the throat and nasal area.

Among the symptoms of a cold, the following are the most prominent:

• nasal congestion
• sore throat
• sneeze
• nasal discharge
• Eye irritation
• mild fever

The common cold is generally not serious, but it is necessary treat them appropriatelyotherwise, they may lead to more serious complications such as otitis media, pneumonia, or bronchitis.

2. Influenza and Influenza A

Cases of this viral infection usually increase during winter. In addition, this year, An increase in influenza A viruses has been observed. Generally, these flu processes result in the following symptoms:

• Muscle pain
• fever
• fatigue
• nasal discharge
• A feeling of suffocation. It is recommended to monitor this symptom, as sometimes it can lead to the development of pneumonia and require hospitalization.

It must be added that influenza May be a reason why older people are hospitalized, minors or persons diagnosed with bronchial pathology. Therefore, vaccination is recommended for the most vulnerable groups to prevent complications.

3.Pneumonia

The disease is caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. The main symptoms of pneumonia are a high fever and a feeling of shortness of breath.

To diagnose it, you must see a specialist, who will perform auscultation and, if necessary, a chest X-ray.

4.Covid-19

The number of new coronavirus cases is also May increase in winter, the symptoms of which are very similar to the flu.Therefore, to distinguish it from other viral infections Need to test. If we get positive results, especially for vulnerable family members, this also allows us to take preventive measures at home.

5. Acute laryngitis

This breathing process is very common during winter.doctor Angel Delgado ZamoranoSpecialists from the same hospital service help us identify the symptoms of acute laryngitis:

• aphonia
• fever
• dry cough
• pain when swallowing
• Earache

6. Pharyngeal tonsillitis

Another very common breathing process is Pharyngeal tonsillitis, which is caused by throat irritation. Generally, it hurts when swallowing, tonsils grow, and causes fever. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed for treatment.

7. Acute bronchitis

This breathing process is often identified by a repetitive dry cough and an effortless feeling of suffocation.

Finally, Dr. Sanchez recommends that we go to the emergency room if we experience one or more of the following symptoms: A high fever that doesn’t go away with common fever-reducing medications, a feeling of shortness of breath, or chest pain. “These symptoms may indicate respiratory complications, such as pneumonia,” experts say.

How to protect yourself from them?

Finally, Quirónsalud offers a series of tips to try to avoid contracting these different respiratory infections during the colder months:

• Get a flu and/or COVID-19 vaccine. This measure is one of the most effective and is therefore very important for high-risk groups.
• Use facial mask In closed and crowded places. This is recommended when symptoms of a respiratory infection are present as it helps prevent the spread of infected particles to others, especially in crowded places.
• room ventilation Or close the space daily to refresh the air.
• wash hands often Use soap and water or hydroalcoholic gel.
• avoid contact Infected people.
• wrap Be right when you leave home.
• Keep out of reach of minors tobacco smoke And don’t smoke in front of them
• consume Foods containing vitamins A and C Foods that boost your immune system, such as oranges, lemons, limes, tangerines and dark green leafy vegetables.
• Hydrate To prevent nasal passages from drying out.
• Avoid crowded places to avoid infection.