Although deaths from acute respiratory infections have become rare due to the availability of potent antimicrobials and effective supportive care, many children suffer from a serious illness requiring hospitalization. Air enters the body through the nose where filtration and humidification take place in the lungs through the trachea. The trachea divides into two branches, each entering a lung in the cavity of the chest. The bronchi continue dividing and subdividing until they are in small structures similar to bags called alveoli where the absorption of the gaseous oxygen exchange and the elimination of the carbon dioxide takes place.
Read more about respiratory infection an other medical concerns.
Infections of the respiratory tract cause swelling of the wall of the airway. Because the airways are narrow in children, even a slight swelling can cause a severe narrowing of the airways and difficulty in breathing. Respiratory tract infections are classified as upper and lower acute respiratory infections. Upper respiratory infections are more common but less severe and include infections of the nose, throat, and ears. The usual manifestations are coughs, colds, and fever. Sometimes, the nasal blockage can be very troublesome.
Viral infections are more common than bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not necessary if there is no evidence of bacterial infection. The fever can be controlled with paracetamol, which can be administered every six hours if necessary. Antitussives (cough medicines) can be given if a cough is dry in older children. Nasal decongestants can be administered for watery nasal discharges. Medicated steam inhalation is very useful if there is a nasal block. Capsules containing liquid medications are available. You can pierce a capsule and you can squeeze the medicine on the pillow or dress of small children. The vapor of the drug will have a calming effect. The middle ear infection is very painful and babies continue to cry continuously while older children complain of an earache. If left untreated, the tympanic membrane may rupture due to an increase in pressure that results in a discharge of pus from the ear.
Lower respiratory tract infections involve the epiglottis (a lid like a structure that prevents food from entering the trachea), the trachea (trachea), its divisions and alveoli. They are more dangerous and even dangerous for life. Epiglottitis (epiglottis infection) is a serious and life-threatening condition
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