Acute respiratory infections refer to a broad category of illnesses, like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, that affect the lower and upper respiratory tract. A significant number of these infections are caused by respiratory viruses, posing a health risk to individuals of all ages. Common respiratory viruses include influenza, rhinoviruses, common cold viruses, and adenovirus. These viruses can invade the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and a cascade of symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Early signs of respiratory infections
Here are some of the early signs of severe respiratory infections caused by viruses:
Fever
If you experience a sudden onset of high fever, especially if it exceeds 103°F, could be a sign of viral infection. Fever is the body’s natural response to fight infections, indicating that the immune system is working to eliminate the virus. You may also experience chills along with fever.
Congestion and sore throat
Nasal congestion and a sore throat are among the initial symptoms of viral infection in the respiratory tract and can cause further discomfort.
Cough
A cough is often the body’s way of clearing the airways of mucus and foreign particles. Coughing may start as mild irritation and develop into a more severe, persistent cough over time as the infection worsens.
Shortness of breath
As a severe respiratory virus progresses, it can lead to inflammation of the airways and lungs, making it increasingly difficult for the affected individual to breathe. Shortness of breath indicates that the virus is impacting the respiratory system more severely. Apart from this, one may also experience dizziness if the infection has advanced.
Chest pain
Severe respiratory viruses can cause chest pain due to the inflammation of the lungs. This pain is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation that worsens with deep breaths or coughing.
Fatigue
A sudden drop in energy levels or general weakness can indicate a viral infection. These symptoms often accompany the body’s immune response to the infection, as it diverts energy and resources to fight the invading virus.
Muscle and body aches
Muscle and body aches result from the body’s immune response and inflammation in muscles and joints. They can be discerning and are usually accompanied by overall discomfort.
Children, elderly, and those with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to acute respiratory infections. Even if the infection seems mild outwardly, treating them with timely medical intervention is essential.
