Acute respiratory infections (ARIs), or upper respiratory tract infections, are common illnesses. While most cases can be treated with over-the-counter medications, there are times when it is best to visit your GP for diagnosis and treatment. So, what should you expect from a visit to your GP regarding ARIs? Scroll down to find out more.
Diagnosing ARIs
ARIs can be triggered by a variety of viruses and bacteria, so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis when visiting your GP. To identify the cause of the infection, your doctor will take a medical history and ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing. They may also take blood or urine samples to check for signs of infection. In some cases, they may order imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans.
Treating ARIs
Once the cause of infection has been identified, your GP will recommend the best course of action to treat the illness. In most cases, this involves prescribing antibiotics or antiviral medications to help fight off the infection. Depending on the severity of the illness, they may also suggest lifestyle changes such as increasing fluid intake and getting plenty of rest. Additionally, they may suggest using decongestants or pain relievers to help with any accompanying symptoms, such as coughing or a sore throat.
Preventing Future Infections
Along with helping you treat the current infection, your doctor can provide advice on how to prevent future infections from occurring in the future. This could include tips on improving overall health through diet and exercise as well as advice on proper hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly and avoiding contact with sick people. Your GP may also suggest getting immunised against certain illnesses that can lead to acute respiratory infections if not prevented properly. For example, receiving the annual flu shot helps to protect against influenza virus infections.
Summary
Acute respiratory infections can be unpleasant, but with timely diagnosis and treatment, they can be managed and treated effectively. As you can see, much more is involved in diagnosing and treating acute respiratory infections than just taking over-the-counter medications. Visiting your GP is always a good idea when dealing with ARIs to get an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment tailored to your needs. In addition, they will be able to advise you on how best to treat your illness as well as how to prevent future infections from occurring in the first place. For further advice, contact a local GP today.
Share3 April 2023
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