Viral infections are very common especially in Pakistan among people of all ages. A larger number of people are severely or mildly affected by a viral infection and suffer from bad coughs, body aches, sore throats, muscle aches, fever, cold, flu, and more. Many suggest that these infections happen due to changing weather conditions and pollution.
On this page, we will give you an insight into the types of common viral infections and how they can be treated. But first, let us understand what viral infections are
What Are Viral Infections?
Viruses are tiny infectious agents that cause a wide range of illnesses and diseases in humans. They are much smaller than bacteria and can only reproduce inside a host organism. Unlike bacteria, viruses cannot grow or reproduce on their own and instead rely on host cells to replicate and spread. Once a virus invades a host cell, it takes over the cellular function and produces its duplicates in the body. The newly developed viruses infect other cells and this is how they spread all over the body.
What are the Causes of Viral Infections?
- Respiratory viruses: These are some of the most common causes of viral infections, and include the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19.
- Enteric viruses: These viruses infect the digestive system and can cause gastroenteritis (stomach flu).
- Sexually transmitted viruses: These viruses are transmitted through sexual contact and can cause infections such as genital warts, genital herpes, and HIV/AIDS.
- Zoonotic viruses: These viruses are transmitted from animals to humans and can cause infections such as rabies.
- Mosquito-borne viruses: These viruses are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause infections such as dengue fever and yellow fever.
- Other causes: Other causes of viral infections include contact with contaminated surfaces, sharing utensils or personal items with an infected person, and receiving a contaminated blood transfusion or organ transplant.
Types of Viral Infections
1. Cold
The common cold is one of the most widespread viral infections and is caused by a group of viruses known as Rhinoviruses. It is a respiratory infection with mild illness, but can still cause discomfort and affect routine life. This virus is spread through the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs, and it can also be spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your nose or mouth.
Symptoms of the common cold include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, and body aches. In severe cases, one may also experience a fever. If you experience a fever, you must take Panadol.
How to Treat Cold?
There is no cure for the common cold, and it usually goes away on its own within a week or two. However, over-the-counter medications, such as nasal spray, pain relievers (Pandol, Nuberol Forte), and cough syrups (Acefyl, Toot Siah, Piriton), can help relieve the symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting plenty of rest can also help the body fight off the infection.
2. Influenza or Flu
The flu is another common viral infection, but it is usually more severe than the common cold. It is caused by the influenza virus and is highly contagious, spreading easily from person to person through coughing and sneezing.
Symptoms of the flu include a high fever, severe body aches, headache, fatigue, and a persistent cough.
How to Treat Flu?
Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the flu. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect you have the flu, as antiviral medications are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of onset. In addition to antiviral medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and cough syrups can help relieve the symptoms.
3. Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach and intestines. It is often caused by viruses, such as norovirus and rotavirus, and can be spread through contaminated food or water or by direct contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
How to Treat Gastroenteritis?
Treatment for gastroenteritis focuses on regaining fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea. Over-the-counter medications, such as Motilium and Flagyl, can be used to help slow down diarrhea. In severe cases, oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte, may be necessary to replenish fluids and electrolytes.
4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, runny nose, and fever. It is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, and the elderly, and is especially dangerous for premature babies and people with compromised immune systems.
RSV is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can also spread through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.
How to Treat Respiratory Syncytial Virus?
Although there is no specific cure for RSV, most people who get infected recover within a few weeks with proper rest, hydration, and supportive care. Treatment for RSV typically involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. This may include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Using over-the-counter medications such as panadol to relieve fever and aches. Using a cool mist humidifier to moisten the air and relieve nasal congestion. Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and other irritants
Diagnosis of Viral Infections
The diagnosis of viral infection is done based on the symptoms a person has. For some infections that cause serious inflammation in the lungs, chest, and any other internal organ, the healthcare provider suggests getting X-Rays. For others, they may need to get their blood tests done.
The Bottom Line Viral infections are very common, affecting people of all ages. Nearly, all of these infections are contagious and can easily spread from one being to another. The best one can do is avoid contact with those already showing these viral symptoms and avoid contact with the surfaces the person with the virus may have touched.
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