Do you often suffer from a respiratory tract infection such as the common cold or bronchitis? Are over-the-counter medications and antibiotics not working for you? If so, then it may be time to give natural supplements a try. Natural supplements can be an effective way to treat your symptoms and speed up recovery without having to resort to chemical medicines. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the best known natural remedies that will help get your respiratory system back on track. From herbal teas and homeopathic solutions, to vitamin C therapies, these natural treatments are easy ways for health conscious individuals to fight off common respiratory ailments quickly and safely!
What is Respiratory Tract Infection?
We know the importance of physical health and how it can affect our daily activities. One of the vital organs of our body is the respiratory system. This system performs a crucial role in supplying oxygen to our body that we breathe in through our nose and mouth. However, with so many air pollutants and germs present in the environment, respiratory tract infections can occur. In this guide, we will cover the basics of respiratory tract infection and how to prevent it from happening.
Respiratory tract infection (RTI) is the infection that is caused by viruses or bacteria that spread through the mouth or nose. This infection can be mild, severe, or long-lasting depending on how strong your immune system is. The common symptoms of RTI include cough, sore throat, fever, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. However, it’s essential to visit a doctor to determine the cause of your infection since it also could be asthma, allergies, or a sign of COVID-19.
Types of Respiratory Infections
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
An upper respiratory tract infection (URI) affects the nose, sinuses, and throat. The most common causes of URIs are viruses, such as the common cold or the flu. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, and sneezing. These symptoms usually last for a few days to a week. URIs are highly contagious, and the virus can spread easily through the air or by touching a contaminated surface. There are several ways to prevent a URI, such as washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and practicing good respiratory hygiene.
Lower Respiratory Tract Infection
A lower respiratory tract infection (LRI) affects the lungs and lower airways. The two most common types of LRI are bronchitis and pneumonia. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses and can be life-threatening, especially for older adults, young children, and people with compromised immune systems. Symptoms of LRI include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, and fatigue. If you suspect you have an LRI, seek medical attention immediately.
Respiratory Tract Infection Symptoms
As we struggle against the pandemic, we are all aware of how important our respiratory system is. However, respiratory infections are pretty common ailments faced by people globally. From a mild cough to severe bronchitis or pneumonia, the spectrum of respiratory tract infections can vary significantly. Below are a list of common symptoms of RTI’s.
Coughing
Coughing is one of the hallmark symptoms of respiratory tract infections. This symptom can range from a dry cough to a wet, productive cough that produces phlegm or mucus. Coughing is one of the body’s natural ways of expelling harmful substances from the respiratory system. If you find yourself coughing frequently or having trouble getting rid of mucus, it’s a sign that you may have a respiratory tract infection.
Nasal Congestion
RTIs can cause nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and sinus pressure. This can lead to headaches, facial pain, and difficulty sleeping. Over-the-counter nasal decongestants can help relieve these symptoms
Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing can be a sign of a more severe respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. If you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty breathing while lying down, seeking medical attention is paramount because it could be an indication that the infection has progressed to a dangerous level.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is a symptom that can sneak up on you gradually and is often a tell-tale sign of respiratory tract infections. It can make everyday tasks feel more difficult and can be a sign of a more severe respiratory problem like asthma or even viral pneumonia.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a symptom that most people associate with cardiac problems. However, respiratory infections can also cause chest pain, particularly if your lungs are inflamed. The pain may be sharp when you cough or breathe deeply, which can indicate pneumonia.
Fever
Fever often accompanies respiratory tract infections. A fever is the body’s way of fighting the infection, and it’s a sign that your immune system is working to protect your body. Fever can occur at any stage of the infection and is typically a sign that your body is trying to fight off the illness.
Sore Throat
A sore throat is a common symptom of upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. The pain can be mild or severe and usually presents alongside other cold and flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, headache, or cough. The throat may become inflamed, making it difficult to swallow or drink because of the discomfort.
Fatigue
Feeling fatigued or lethargic is a common symptom of respiratory tract infections, especially in the early stages. It’s the result of the body’s immune system fighting the infection. The fatigue can be quite extreme, preventing you from going about your regular activity or even just getting out of bed in the morning.
What Causes Respiratory Tract Infection
Viruses
A virus is the most common agent that causes RTIs. Viral infections affect the upper respiratory tract – the nose, throat, and sinuses. Common viral infections include the cold and flu. Typically, a person with a cold will experience symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, sore throat, and cough. In contrast, flu symptoms often include fever, headache, and muscle aches. These viral infections are highly communicable and usually spread through contact. A common way of getting infected is through touching surfaces contaminated by the virus.
Bacteria
Bacterial infections are more severe than viral infections and can be life-threatening. Unlike viruses that affect the upper respiratory system, bacterial infections can affect both upper and lower respiratory systems. Pneumonia is one common type of RTI caused by bacteria. Pneumonia causes inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs, leading to severe difficulty in breathing. Other bacterial infections include whooping cough, streptococcus, and tuberculosis. Bacterial infections are treatable using antibiotics, but sometimes it can be challenging to differentiate between a viral infection and bacterial infection.
Air Pollution
Air pollution is another culprit behind respiratory tract infections. The air we breathe in has a lot of contaminants such as dust, pollen, tobacco smoke, and industrial pollution. These harmful particles can irritate our respiratory tract, leading to an infection. The particulate matter (PM) 2.5 and PM 10 are tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lung tissues, causing both long-term and short-term respiratory complications. Breathing in contaminated air can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma.
Lifestyle Habits
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as good hygiene, exercise, healthy eating, and avoiding smoking can help prevent respiratory infections. Habits like smoking can damage the respiratory tissue, leading to chronic respiratory infections like bronchitis and lung cancer. Exercising, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated also supports your immune system and keeps your body healthy to fight off infections.
Seasonal Factors
The season you’re in can also affect your susceptibility to respiratory infections. Winter, for instance, is the flu season because of the dry air, low humidity, and cold temperatures. Autumn also has triggers like ragweed pollen, mold spores, and leaves that can trigger respiratory ailments to allergy sufferers. During spring and summer, the high humidity levels and warm temperatures often exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Diagnosing Respiratory Tract Infection
Diagnosing respiratory tract infections involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. During the physical examination, your doctor will check your body temperature, listen to your lungs, and examine your throat. Your medical history will provide important information about your symptoms and any past medical conditions. Diagnostic tests may include a chest x-ray, blood tests, or a nasal swab to test for the presence of bacteria or viruses.
Respiratory Tract Infection Treatment
Respiratory tract infections can hinder your day-to-day activities, making it difficult for you to breathe properly. The good news is that there are many effective treatments available to help you combat respiratory tract infections.
Rest and Hydration
When it comes to respiratory tract infections, rest and hydration are key. Your body needs time to recover and heal, and the best way to do that is by getting enough rest and staying hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water, warm tea with honey, and clear broths. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you further. Additionally, try to stay away from smoking or being around anyone who smokes, as this can irritate your respiratory system even more.
Over-the-counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate your symptoms and make you feel better. If you’re experiencing a cough, you can take cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan. On the other hand, if you have a fever or body aches, you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If you’re struggling with congestion, decongestants like pseudoephedrine can clear things up. However, make sure to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions, as some medications can have side effects or interact with other medications.
Natural Remedies
If you’re looking for a more natural approach to treating your respiratory tract infection, there are plenty of remedies you can try. Taking a hot shower or using a humidifier can help ease congestion. Gargling salt water can soothe a sore throat. Drinking herbal tea with ginger, turmeric, and/or echinacea can boost your immune system. Eating garlic and honey can also help fight off infections. While natural remedies may not work for everyone, they can be a great alternative to traditional medications.
Prescription Medications
If your infection is severe or doesn’t seem to be improving, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antivirals. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, while antivirals are used to treat viral infections. It’s important to take these medications exactly as prescribed and for the full duration of the treatment, even if you start feeling better. Not finishing your antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which can make it harder to treat infections in the future.
Prevention
Finally, the best way to treat a respiratory tract infection is to prevent it from happening in the first place. You can do this by practicing good hygiene, washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and getting a flu shot every year. Additionally, make sure to take care of your overall health by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
Supplements for Respiratory Tract Infection
Vitamin C
Perhaps the most well-known of all immune-boosting supplements, vitamin C is essential for protecting against respiratory tract infections. This powerful antioxidant helps to neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and increase the risk of infection. Vitamin C supplements also helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections. You can get vitamin C from a variety of sources, including supplements, fruits like oranges and kiwis, and vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers.
Echinacea
Derived from a plant native to North America, echinacea is a popular herbal supplement that’s often used to strengthen the immune system and prevent respiratory tract infections. Echinacea contains compounds that can stimulate the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation. Some studies have shown that taking echinacea supplements can help to reduce the risk of developing a cold or flu. However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of echinacea supplements for respiratory tract infections.
Garlic
Known for its pungent aroma and taste, garlic is also a powerful immune-boosting supplement. Garlic contains compounds that can help to stimulate the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation. Some studies have shown that taking garlic supplements can help to reduce the risk of developing a cold or flu. You can also add more garlic to your diet by incorporating it into your cooking or taking garlic supplements.
Vitamin D
As a vitamin that’s essential for bone health, vitamin D is also important for immune function. Vitamin D helps to stimulate the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation, both of which can help to fight off infections. Studies have shown that people with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to develop respiratory tract infections. You can get vitamin D from a variety of sources, including supplements and foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting the cells in the body from damage caused by free radicals. It also helps improve immune function and can help prevent the onset of respiratory tract infections. Taking vitamin E supplements can help improve respiratory function and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that reside in the gut and boost immune function. They can also help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections. Probiotics can be taken in supplement form or found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
Elderberry
Elderberry is a natural remedy for respiratory tract infections, and it’s been used for centuries to treat cold and flu symptoms. It contains flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system’s response to infections. Elderberry supplements can be taken as capsules, gummies, powder, or syrups.
Zinc
Zinc is another critical supplement for respiratory tract infections. It supports a healthy immune system and can help shorten the duration of respiratory tract infections. Zinc supplements can also reduce the severity of symptoms, making you feel better faster. Zinc lozenges are a popular way to take zinc for respiratory tract infections.
ImmunoBoost Bundle
ImmunoBoost Bundle is available for purchase here. It features elderberry powder, Vitamin C & E, as well as zinc picolinate.
The Bottom Line
Respiratory tract infections are an unavoidable part of life, but there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect yourself and those around you. Effective prevention strategies include vaccination, good hygiene practices, and avoiding exposure to irritants and allergens. By understanding the different types of respiratory tract infections and their causes, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and the health of others. If you experience symptoms of an RTI, consult your healthcare provider promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
RTI’s can be treated effectively through a combination of medical intervention and lifestyle changes. It is important to keep in mind that not all respiratory tract infections require antibiotics, and it is always best to consult your healthcare provider before treating an infection. By following simple lifestyle changes, and keeping your body healthy, you can fight respiratory tract infections and breathe easy.
While there’s no magic cure for a respiratory tract infection, incorporating supplements into your diet can help you reduce the severity of symptoms, protect your immune system, and avoid developing respiratory tract infections altogether. Vitamin D, Zinc, Vitamin C, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Vitamin E are among the best supplements that can help you to stay healthy all year long. However, before taking any supplements, it’s important to discuss your individual needs with a healthcare provider to ensure they are a suitable addition to your health regimen. Remember, supplements are just an addition to a healthy lifestyle, and they won’t work in isolation. So, continue to eat right, exercise, and take care of yourself to keep respiratory infections at bay.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease