Common upper respiratory illness
Winter months can be difficult for those who have respiratory problems. During cold and flu seasons, many people become sick with upper and lower respiratory illnesses.
Describe one common upper respiratory illness (bronchitis, coryza, rhinitis, pneumonia, etc.). Also, describe how to prevent these upper respiratory
infections. You should include what role the immune system plays when discussing causes and preventions of respiratory illnesses.
Sample Solution
Upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, and sometimes fungi that affect the throat, nose, sinuses, and other parts of the upper airway. One of the most common upper respiratory illnesses is bronchitis. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi in the lungs which causes difficulty breathing and coughing. It produces a thick mucus which can cause congestion and blockage in the airways.
he main causes of bronchitis include exposure to irritants such as smoke or chemical fumes, viral infections such as colds or influenza (“the flu”), bacterial infection from bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae, and allergies that trigger inflammation in the lungs. Bronchitis can also be caused by weakened immunity due to genetic disorders, certain medications that suppress immune system responses, or conditions like HIV/AIDS that weaken the body’s ability to defend itself against harmful pathogens.
Preventing bronchitis begins with strengthening your immune system because it plays a central role in fighting off any type of infection including those causing upper respiratory illness. There are several steps you can take to boost your immunity: eating nourishing foods rich in antioxidants; getting regular exercise; drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day; getting sufficient sleep each night; washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding contact with people who have contagious illnesses; not smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products; staying away from areas where there may be hazardous materials such as construction sites; taking a multivitamin on a daily basis to ensure adequate nutrient intake for healthy functioning; managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation so you don't become overly anxious about potential health risks posed by outside factors beyond your control.
Another important step toward preventing bronchitis is avoiding exposure to irritants like chemicals fumes from cleaning supplies used at home or work, cigarette smoke second-hand smoke even if you don't live near someone who smokes regularly , pollutants found outdoors especially during periods when there's high levels in ground-level ozone toxic particles emitted through vehicle exhaust fumes , pollen spores during allergy season etc.. When possible stay indoors when pollution levels are highest outside - usually mid-afternoon when temperatures tend peak - wear protective masks if necessary while venturing outdoors on days with poor air quality ratings avoid close contact with anyone displaying symptoms related infectious diseases like colds flus etc.. Lastly make sure you're up date vaccinations protect yourself against seasonal virus strains year round make sure get recommended annual flu shot depending age underlying medical conditions .
Overall maintaining healthy lifestyle good nutrition regular physical activity proper rest hydration these few key components help strengthen immune system keep bronchial irritation bay reduce risk developing this type lower respiratory tract infection . Taking these proactive steps can go long way helping prevent future bouts serious lung ailment like bronchitis calm discomfort associated condition improve overall pulmonary function benefit individuals young old alike weather they suffer chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) asthma some form cardiovascular difficulty shortness breath chest tightness wheezing coughing phlegm production other types acute mild persistent lung ailments