The first signs of acute respiratory infections in a child than to treat. How to distinguish orz from orvi in ​​a child by symptoms

How to distinguish ARI from SARS in children? Many parents wonder if there is any difference between ARI and SARS. Is there a need for fundamentally different treatment of these conditions? Is it possible to distinguish between these groups of diseases by the symptoms that appear in a child?

ARI - several diseases combined into one group - acute respiratory diseases. Common to acute respiratory infections - they are caused by infectious agents and affect the upper respiratory tract. The causative agents are diverse - viral microorganisms, bacteria, fungi.

ARVI is a special case of acute respiratory infections that have viruses as an etiological factor. The affected area in SARS is similar. They appear in different forms.

Fundamental differences

The difference between diseases in different pathogens. It is impossible to determine at the initial stage whether an acute respiratory disease in a child or specifically SARS is impossible. It will be possible to establish accurately only after the laboratory determination of the pathogen.

There is little difference in symptoms if ARI is caused by bacterial flora. Accordingly, a viral lesion is characterized by symptoms. Based on this information, they suggest how the disease will develop further.

Differences in diseases caused by various pathogens

Symptoms of ARI

With a bacterial origin of acute respiratory infections, the symptoms will develop gradually and increase over time. What will the child complain about, and what will you see on examination:

• headache of low intensity;
• general malaise for two to three days;
• rise in body temperature first to 37.0 0 С, then the fever increases;
• gradually there is a cough with a branch of yellow-green sputum;
• coryza with thick yellow mucus;
• if the tonsils are affected, then white-gray plaques appear on them.

The gradual development of symptoms is associated with the relatively slow introduction and reproduction of bacteria. Pus - in raids, discharge from the nose and sputum - dead bacteria and leukocytes.

Runny nose - one of the symptoms of acute respiratory infections

SARS symptoms

Manifestations of the disease with a viral cause - SARS - are observed at an earlier date. Viruses penetrate tissues much faster and multiply in large numbers. What is observed in a child with a viral disease:

• from the first day headache and severe malaise;
• aches in muscles and joints;
• the temperature in children immediately rises to 38.0 - 39.0 0 C;
• catarrhal symptoms are clearly expressed - redness of the oropharyngeal mucosa, conjunctivitis phenomena;
• from the nose in children departs abundant transparent discharge;
• worried about dry cough without sputum;
• sensation of scratching in the throat, hoarseness of voice.

These symptoms are associated with active damage to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract by the virus.

Cough is one of the symptoms of an acute infection

Diagnostics

Establishing a diagnosis based on symptoms alone is unrealistic. It is only possible to suspect the viral or bacterial nature of the disease and distinguish them by different symptoms.

The diagnosis is confirmed by laboratory tests, discharge is taken from the mucous membranes of the nose and oropharynx. Viruses or bacteria are found in the material. And it is possible to distinguish two diseases.

The following laboratory methods are used

• PCR discharge from the nose and throat - this reaction reveals the genetic material of the pathogen;
• bacteriological examination of sputum and nasal mucus;
• enzyme immunoassay for detection of antibodies to viruses and bacteria.

With pronounced manifestations of diseases, general blood tests will also differ:

• the bacterial environment gives moderate leukocytosis and a large number of neutrophils;
• viruses cause severe leukocytosis and an increase in the level of lymphocytes.

Treatment

The treatment of a child is different depending on the cause of the disease.

For bacterial processes, you need to give:

• appropriate antibiotics;
• thinning nasal drops and sprays- "Rinofluimucil";
• expectorant and phlegm-thinning cough syrups- ACC, "Lazolvan", "Ambrobene";
• throat rinses- chamomile, furatsilin.

For virus processes, you need to give:

• antiviral drugs- Arbidol, Ingavirin, Oscillococcinum;
• vasoconstrictor nasal drops- "Nazivin", "Tizin xylo";
• dry cough suppressants- "Sinekod", "Stoptussin";
• antipyretic drugs- Panadol, Nurofen.

Differences between acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections are observed when the first diseases are caused by bacterial flora. In this case, the diagnosis can be established even at the stage of symptoms. In other cases, the diagnosis in children is confirmed by laboratory tests. Accordingly, the treatment will differ in bacterial and viral processes.

The term "Acute respiratory diseases" in the medical field means a complex of ailments that occurs under the influence of viruses attacking a weakened body. The disease affects children, adults and adolescents.

More recently, drug therapy included taking antibiotics. Today, the method of treatment has changed significantly. But in any case, with acute respiratory infections and orvi in ​​children, medications are prescribed.

ARI and SARS - what is it?

The initial appointment in the doctor's office begins with the collection of anamnesis. The medical specialist asks about the expressed symptoms of the onset of the disease, conducts an external examination of the patient. These actions make it possible to outline adequate therapy leading to the recovery of the patient. To achieve this goal, the doctor should accurately determine the name of the disease.

Often a common cold occurs after hypothermia of the body. There is no such diagnosis in medicine. Doctors define the disease as SARS. Can the patient independently determine what kind of pathology it is?

Acute respiratory viral infection is a viral form of the common cold. The disease is confirmed after referral for blood tests. When the diagnosis is confirmed, deviations from the norm are visible in the expanded-type leukocyte formula.

ARI and SARS in children force parents to resort to the help of doctors. It is not easy to make a diagnosis on your own. Indeed, the selection and effectiveness of treatment depends on the specifics of the disease, the duration of the manifestations of the disease and the condition of the small patient.

The diagnosis of acute respiratory infections is indicated in situations where the infection attacks the upper respiratory tract. In this case, the disease is transmitted only by airborne droplets and spreads in children's groups in a short time.

Having studied the symptoms of the course of the patient's illness, the local doctor determines the diagnosis. The development of acute respiratory infections is accompanied by a bacterial and viral component:

• the symptoms of the disease are poorly expressed at the first stage of the disease;
• the development of the disease is slow;
• the epithelium in the upper respiratory tract is necessarily affected;
• the lack of drug therapy leads to complications in the form of inflammatory processes.

Diagnoses of orz and orvi are considered the norm from autumn days to spring. Therefore, during this period it is worth doing disease prevention.

Features of the development of orvi.

The group of infectious ailments of the acute type of the course includes ARVI. The cause of their development is considered a viral etiology. During the course of the disease, the respiratory tract is affected. The disease is accompanied by intoxication of the body and is often complicated by bacterial complications.

The period of infection is in February. At this time, the immune system is weakened to the maximum and the child's defenses are reduced. The source of infection is contact with the patient.

The disease is characterized by the following stages of development:

• perspiration in the nasopharynx, nasal congestion, lack of high temperature;
• febrile condition of the patient, the herpes virus manifests itself, the temperature rises, barking cough, headache
• accompanied by muscle stiffness, increased sore throat;
• runny nose, wet cough (patient begins to expectorate).

The adequacy of therapy helps to prevent the development of complications.

Symptoms of acute respiratory infections and orvi in ​​children.

The pediatrician prescribes therapy after finding out certain characteristics of the course of the disease. After all, there are a lot of differences between the banal ARI and the classic SARS. For example, the source of a cold is hypothermia. And viruses and bacteria become the impetus for the appearance of acute respiratory infections.

The primary symptoms of ORZ and ORVI are completely different. When diagnosing an acute respiratory disease (ARVI) of a bacterial type, the following are detected:

• body temperature from 38 °;
• conjunctivitis;
• rhinitis.

In acute respiratory infections, the course of the disease is uniform, without signs of an increase in the severity of symptoms. All manifestations of the disease persist for about 2 weeks. Against the background of the bacterial development of the disease, complications often begin even with an adequate therapy option. Usually found:

• otitis;
• bronchitis;
• sinusitis;
• pneumonia.

Laboratory tests show a significant increase in neutrophils. The incubation period for ARI is 5 days. During this time, the symptoms of acute respiratory infections in children manifest themselves in the form of:

• rhinitis;
• nasal congestion;
• cough;
• sneezing
• hoarseness of voice;
• temperature 37 ... 37.9 degrees;
• pain in the throat;
• drowsiness;
• muscle pain;
• lack of appetite;
• earache.

The symptoms of acute respiratory infections and orvi in ​​babies are somewhat different. In the acute form of the development of a respiratory viral infection, a vivid clinical picture is observed:

• general malaise;
• feeling of brokenness;
• headache;
• rise in temperature on the second or third day;
• runny nose;
• cough.

Often SARS turns into bacterial complications. When taking blood tests, an increased number of lymphocytes, monocytes are detected.

What are the similarities between orz and orvi in ​​children?

Young, inexperienced doctors are confused in the symptoms of manifestations of diseases such as SARS and acute respiratory infections. This is due to similar characteristic symptoms. During the examination, doctors observe:

• intoxication;
• weakness;
• temperature during acute respiratory infections up to 37 ... 37.9ºС (if higher, then this is already SARS);
• catarrhal inflammations.

Symptoms of acute respiratory infections and orvi appear immediately from the onset of the disease. However, it is not easy for young doctors to determine the diagnosis without blood tests. Therefore, experienced practitioners - therapists are forced to memorize the distinctive features of the ailments of this group.

Differences between orz and orvi.

Long-term observations of the course of diseases led to certain conclusions. Despite the fact that so far many doctors claim that ORZ and ORVI are synonymous with the same diagnosis, this statement turned out to be fundamentally wrong. What are the differences between viral and bacterial infections? The importance of determining the accuracy of the diagnosis guarantees the effectiveness of treatment and tactics - the appointment of antiviral / antibacterial drugs.

Pathogen.

The causative agent for the development of pathology varies. However, at the initial stage of the disease, it is unrealistic to be sure of the specifics of the diagnosis. This requires a laboratory determination of the pathogen. Viruses can cause ARI:

1. adenoviruses;
2. parainfluenza;
3. rhinovirus;
4. flu;
5. enteroviruses.

Statistics show that ARVI is one of the most common diagnoses that are diagnosed in patients at any age. It is worth noting that the therapist and pediatrician without diagnostic examinations will not determine the exact cause of the development of the disease and the pathogenic microbe.

Localization.

The localization of the pathogen suggests what the doctor is dealing with. In addition to determining the range of symptoms in a patient, the doctor finds out which organ is affected by the disease.

With influenza, there are high chances for the development of complications. First of all, the virus descends into the upper respiratory tract and the mucous membrane in the nasal cavity.

Parainfluenza immediately attacks the mucous membrane of the larynx, captures the nose. The disease is transmitted as standard - by airborne droplets. In a street environment, the virus dies in less than a day.

With a rhinovirus infection, the nasal mucosa is primarily affected. The epidemic is caused in closed groups - in kindergartens, schools. The incubation period of a viral illness depends on immunity. Typically, the incidence threshold is 1 ... 6 days.

Adenovirus infection has a wide range of viruses to spread. The upper respiratory tract, intestines and eyes are attacked. The diagnosis is determined before the younger preschool age. After all, the child's body has a reduced immune system.

Reovirus infection is also transmitted by airborne droplets. The localization of the causative agent of the disease is the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract.

With acute respiratory infections, pathogens affect the bronchi (respiratory tract). The result of this is an inflammatory process. Released toxins from viruses have a negative effect on the nervous system.

ARI is localized in 2 departments, depending on which organs were attacked by the virus:

the lower sections are involved (below the level of the vocal cords) - they are caused by diseases such as bronchitis, laryngitis and tracheitis;
the virus is localized in the upper sections (pharyngitis, rhinitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis).

Seasonality.

The seasonality of the development of ors and orvi is the cold months. This characteristic depends on the type of causative agent of the disease.

The peak of the influenza epidemic often begins on the post-New Year holidays and ends in February. The outbreak of parainfluenza occurs in autumn days. If we talk about adenovirus infection, then this disease is characterized by mild seasonality. But often it happens at the end of winter. RS-virus infection is diagnosed in winter.

incubation period.

The incubation period for each type of ailment varies. It should be noted that for viruses that are caused by SARS, the period of infection is 1-10 days. Influenza, unlike other ailments, is characterized by rapid development, with an incubation period of 12 hours.

ARI treatment.

Therapy for acute respiratory infections and orvi depends on what type of pathogen is identified. If a viral etiology is recognized, then an antiviral, immunostimulating treatment regimen is required. But the bacterial species of the pathogen requires, accordingly, antibiotic therapy.

Special schemes for the treatment of ailments have been developed. Their use makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of the therapy regimen. For the treatment of acute respiratory infections are prescribed:

General points - a warm drink, antipyretics (Paracetamol or Ibuprofen tablets), antitussives (usually Bronholitin, Mukaltin, Lazolvan), multivitamins are prescribed. As necessary, antiviral drugs are included in the prescription list - Rimantadine, Kagocel, Amiksin.
Bed rest saves the body's strength. It also avoids the development of a secondary infection.

The dietary menu for the period of illness includes easily digestible food. It is required to forget about fried foods, fatty and spicy. It is necessary to forget about salty and smoked food. It is recommended to stop smoking and drinking alcohol.

Rinsing the nose helps to get rid of the infection.
Gargling is an opportunity to exclude the settling of viruses. Used soda-saline solution, decoction of chamomile (eucalyptus, calendula).

Inhalation can reduce sore throat, eliminate perspiration. Exposure to certain medications leads to the treatment of cough and normalization of breathing.
Ventilation in the patient room is essential.

Antivirals.

Today, pharmacy warehouses offer dozens of antiviral agents. With their help, it is possible to stop complications. However, the patient's body subsequently gets used to it and waits for a “push”. For therapy with acute respiratory infections, antiviral drugs are divided into:

means of wide action;
aimed at the destruction of viruses and infections.
The choice of the drug is possible only by a doctor. Usually prescribed:

• Orvirem;
• Tamiflu;
• Rimantadine;
• Ribaverin;
• Arbidol.

Before taking an antiviral medication, you should read the instructions. It indicates contraindications, age of patients and dosages.

How to overcome a runny nose?

Depending on the type of rhinitis, different treatment options are prescribed. For the most part, an agent with salt water (Aquamaris, Quicks) is initially buried. With liquid snot of a transparent type, vasoconstrictors help well - Nazivin, Vibrocil, Otrivin, Pinosol, Tizin, Sanorin.

If nasal congestion is observed, a runny nose torments, then the doctor prescribes sprays - Nazivin, Noxprey, Pinosol and Farmazolin. Mucus thickening requires a different approach to treatment. The physician enters Kollargol, Pinosol or Protargol in the list of appointments.

Sodium chloride solution is an analogue of Aquamaris.

Very often, the therapist and pediatrician convince of the benefits of Aquamaris. However, its cost scares many. Therefore, patients are looking for alternative nasal irrigation options. A simple saline solution known as "Sodium Chloride" helps with this. This drug is one of the cheapest. It perfectly moisturizes the mucosa, disinfects and thins the mucus. Sodium chloride is also involved in reducing swelling.

It is believed that washing the nose with a simple remedy can also be a preventive measure. Sinus lavage with saline is prescribed for:

• rhinitis of various origins;
• allergic rhinitis;
• in chronic diseases of the nasopharynx.

Cold drops.

Many drops from the common cold have proven their effectiveness. In general, rhinitis is a clear manifestation of a viral disease. Therefore, the main task in the treatment of snot is to stop the disease at an early stage of development. To do this, it is necessary to organize an inflow of clean air into the room.

Drops are also prescribed to moisturize the nasal passages. A cheap treatment option is saline. You can also include Ektericide in the prescription list. The selection of drugs for the common cold should be done by a doctor. After all, under the ban are vasoconstrictor drugs for viral rhinitis. After the first positive results with an illiterate selection of funds, mucosal edema begins.

Cough preparations.

The doctor repeats more than once in his videos that coughing is a natural process, not a pathology. Therefore, it is forbidden to select drugs on your own! This is especially true for antitussives. Neither Glaucine, nor Bronholitin, nor Libexin and Tusuprex will bring benefits and will not speed up the healing process.

Only the doctor determines whether it is worth helping the body and prescribing funds for sputum discharge. Depending on the course of the disease, the district physician decides whether antitussives will be effective in a particular situation. They are necessary in order to transfer the cough from a dry primary form to a productive, wet one. Often for these purposes appoint:

• Alteyka;
• Bluecode;
• Codelac.

If the sputum is thick, it does not come out of the bronchi well, then it is worth drinking a course of Ascoril or ACC. These drugs thin the mucus. But you can bring it out with such a tool as Tussin or plantain syrup.

Folk remedies.

Since ancient times, people have enjoyed the benefits of nature. Various properties of herbs and tinctures have been discovered that help a weakened body cope with ailments. Modern medicine has not moved that far from this type of treatment. Many therapists and pediatricians prescribe folk remedies against acute respiratory infections as an additional treatment.

So, a strong cough, pain when swallowing a child is relieved with a small glass of milk and honey, soda. To prepare the “solution”, it is required to dissolve soda on the tip of a knife and a little honey in a warm product. Well proven and butter for these purposes. Suck a small piece and you can forget about the pain. There are also ready-made fees for kids based on herbs. They have different types of action. Therefore, it is worth consulting with a doctor on prescription.

Many great-grandfathers were treated for cough syndrome with ordinary radish. Having received juice from it, honey was added. This remedy was great for getting rid of a debilitating cough.

Pediatricians strongly advise to use teas with raspberries, linden, lingonberries. What parents don't realize is that this simple recipe expels toxins and speeds up recovery.

To maintain immunity and reduce the inflammatory process, you should drink rosehip infusion. It can be a decoction or berries are added to tea. The result will not keep you waiting long.

Benefits of Kalanchoe.

In the 90s, Kalanchoe flowers stood on the windows. This nondescript plant is still valuable today. It is known not only as an excellent remedy for the common cold. Juices and ointments, tinctures and infusions are made from it. Kalanchoe helps to reduce inflammation. It is prescribed in combination with the main therapy for sinusitis, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory infections in a child.

An effective remedy for rhinitis is prepared as follows: the juice from a leaf of a plant is diluted with water or milk 1: 3. Three times a day, the resulting substance is instilled into the nostrils. The only negative is the minimum shelf life of the mixture. You have to re-mix the solution every day.

How to treat orvi?

Mild and moderate course of ARVI does not require hospital treatment. However, for home therapy, it is necessary to organize the implementation of the rules:

• Restriction in communication;
• Separate bedding, dishes, towels;
• Daily wet cleaning in the room with the patient;
• Ventilate as often as possible;
• Control air humidity (should be at least 40%).
• It also requires drug therapy for SARS. Doctors prescribe a symptomatic treatment option. It includes:
• antiviral;
• immunomodulating Grippferon, Aflubin, Bronchomunal, Viferon, Immunal, Cycloferon, Amiksin.

Also on the prescription list are drugs to relieve other symptoms of the disease:

• antipyretic (Nimesil, Nurofen);
• mucolytics (Lazolvan, Erespal, Mukaltin);
• vasoconstrictor drops or sprays in the nose;
• vitamin complex.

All appointments are made by the attending physician at the time of admission!

Dr. Komarovsky also talks about the treatment of SARS.

Why should you go to the clinic?

It seemed that it was difficult to cope with a cold on your own? Pshikay, drip and drink pills - in a week everything will pass. However, the consequences of such a treatment regimen will not please. Let's look at the reasons.

First, you are a source of infection for others. The infection is dulled, hidden under the influence of the drugs taken. But it does not stop and continues to develop in the body.

Secondly, serious complications in the form of pneumonia or other diseases will lead to a hospital bed.

Thirdly, immunity against the disease will not be obtained. During the illness, the strength of the body will decrease, and constant infections are guaranteed in the coming months.

Benefits of breastfeeding for acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory infections.

Infecting a baby with a cold or a virus is easy enough. But what if the nursing mother herself “fell down” with an indisposition? What to do? The first thing to do is to calm down and contact a therapist. The doctor will explain that with SARS, breastfeeding is not prohibited. This solution has its advantages:

There will be antibodies in milk that increase the strength of the baby's body.
The presence of the virus in the mother suggests that the infection has already been in her blood for one to three days. So, the disease has already managed to pass to the baby. Breastfeeding helps to get nourishment and antibodies. With a sharp separation from the chest, the little one loses the source of treatment, and the infection absorbs immune cells. This means that the baby will catch the virus.

Sometimes the doctor has to demand to stop breastfeeding in connection with the intake of funds that are not compatible with the feeding process. During this period, the mother must be sure to express milk. At the end of the course of treatment, by agreement of the doctor, it is allowed to continue feeding.

Prevention of acute respiratory infections and orvi.

Dozens of options and treatment regimens do not allow you to protect yourself from infection. Therefore, doctors advise to pay attention to preventive measures. Naturally, this will not help 100%, but it will reduce the risk of developing pathology.

During the epidemic, you should think about taking a course of antiviral. For these purposes, Arbidol and Ribavirin, Cycloferon and Kagocel are suitable.

• • Daily infusions strengthen the body. However, it must be a lifestyle.
  • Ensuring a good night's sleep.
  • The diet should include fruits, juices, vegetables.
  • Long walks. It can be walking, cycling, running.

What is the difference between ARI and ARVI according to Dr. Komarovsky.

It is hardly possible to find a person who has not suffered at least once in his life an acute respiratory disease. We experience the disease habitually with drugs and the resulting complications. But the symptoms of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children are much more disturbing, and every parent tries to do everything so that the disease quickly recedes.

Medical illiteracy often does not allow us to distinguish between a cold and the flu, especially when it comes to our babies. Unlike us, they are not yet able to talk about their pain, discomfort. But depending on how quickly the parents reveal the signs of the disease, the effectiveness of the treatment and the recovery time will depend.

Parents need to know what the symptoms of SARS are in order to detect the disease in a timely manner

The World Health Organization has established more than 250 types of respiratory infections.

1. Acute respiratory viral infections: influenza, parainfluenza, adeno-, rota-, corona-, rhino-, paraviruses, etc. Influenza occurs due to a virus of the same name, the rest of the respiratory infections are called SARS.
2. Bacterial infection, the same rhinopharyngitis, rhinitis, bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia and others are caused by streptococcal, staphylococcal, pneumococcal and other bacilli.
3. Mycoplasma are caused by microbes.
4. Unspecified types include atypical infection.

Diagnosis of all types of infectious respiratory diseases is difficult due to the similarity of symptoms, and a professional doctor establishes a diagnosis of ARVI, undertaking treatment for the signs of the disease. To distinguish acute respiratory infections, that is, a cold from the flu, you need to know the sequence of onset of symptoms at the last.

Advantages of breastfeeding in acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children

ARVI infection occurs by air through the cough, sneezing of the patient. Babies who are breastfed, up to 6 months of age, practically do not get sick with ARVI. The reason for this is the composition of mother's milk. It contains a unique set of useful components: vitamins, minerals, trace elements and enzymes that protect a small organism from any kind of infection. Artificial babies, unfortunately, are defenseless against the attacks of microbacteria, viruses and can become infected under any conditions. Therefore, an important and main point of parents is to protect the health of their beloved child and regular visits to the pediatrician.

Signs of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children

Influenza is manifested by the suddenness of symptoms. First of all, pathogens affect the mucous membrane of the nose, larynx, respiratory canals. Therefore, there is perspiration, sore throat. You can determine by the child if he refuses to drink, eat.

With the flu, the temperature rises quite sharply

The next stage is the introduction of the virus into the epithelium of cells and spread throughout the body through the blood. Intoxication occurs, causing headache and dizziness, aching joints. Given the fact that the child cannot talk about it, you need to pay attention to the following points:

• the baby does not sleep well, restless sleep, interrupted by crying, whims;
• the baby's skin becomes pale, the area around the nose and lips turns blue;
• the child's voice becomes hoarse;
• runny nose occurs.

It is impossible not to notice the high temperature, so it is necessary to measure it regularly.

ARI is caused by bacteria that every person has in the body. Their activation can be provoked by:

• hypothermia;
• protracted, chronic diseases;
• draft, cold air.

In a child, the disease manifests itself through:

• runny nose;
• sneezing
• hoarseness of voice;
• swollen lymph nodes.

If the child's immunity is too suppressed, the temperature rises and complications are possible, but such cases are rare and the cold goes away with adequate treatment without consequences.

Treatment of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children

Acute respiratory disease disappears after 7 days, maximum after 10, the main thing is to take adequate treatment and regimen.

• In case of a runny nose, use vasoconstrictors that open the way to free breathing and minimize the risk of mucus stagnation - Aquamaris, Salin, etc. These drugs are designed specifically for babies in the form of drops, nasal sprays. You can use them for no more than 3 days.
• The child's cough in the first 3 days is dry (unproductive), then sputum begins to be expectorated. In these cases, parents can only give warm drinks: milk, herbal tea with honey, lemon, cocoa butter, decoction of chamomile, linden flowers, raspberries. Medications only as prescribed by a doctor.
• Dryness in the throat, perspiration is treated with available means: rinsing with soda solution (for 1 glass of warm water, half a teaspoon of soda and salt). Older children can be given lozenges with a softening effect with menthol, lemon balm, as well as antitussive sprays.

Runny nose in children can be treated with AquaMaris

What to give a child at the first sign of SARS

Treatment of acute respiratory viral infection requires an individual approach. For appointments, the doctor needs to collect a complete history and study the symptoms, to which therapy will be directed. It includes exposure to influenza drugs of the following series:

• Antiviral, as well as immunomodulatory, stimulating the body's production of its own interferon - Kagocel, Viferon, Kipferon.
• Antipyretics - Ibuprofen and its derivatives.

• Antihistamines for vasodilation - Diazolin, Suprastin, etc.
• Bronchodilators, antispasmodics, painkillers are also prescribed, but therapy should only be prescribed by an experienced specialist.

What to do with SARS in a child

Regardless of whether the baby has an acute respiratory disease or the flu, there are a number of mandatory measures that alleviate the condition of the child.

1. Bed rest. The child should be at rest and save the already meager reserves of protective forces. It is required to protect him from visiting strangers. If the baby has pain in the eyes, photophobia, lacrimation, close the curtains, turn off the luminous devices.
2. Drink. Water, compotes, herbal teas, juices, fruit drinks are a great way to cleanse the body of toxins caused by the decay products of viruses and parts of healthy cells. Also, water regulates heat transfer and moisturizes dry, inflamed respiratory mucosa, helps to thin sputum and expectorate mucus.
3. Regular airing of the child's room. In stagnant, dry air, the supply of oxygen dries up, because of which the condition of the sick child worsens. There is also a rapid growth of infection in the atmosphere, and viruses again penetrate the body, again affecting the internal organs.

The onset of SARS in a child: how to stop

Drinking plenty of fluids is the main source of your baby's recovery. Any infection is dehydration of the body, and as we know, dryness of the mucous membrane, intoxication occurs. If the baby is sick, apply it to the chest more often. Give older children fruit drinks, compote, warm water, raspberry decoctions.

Bed rest in the treatment of SARS is extremely important

Important: regardless of whether the parents know the exact diagnosis or not, it is necessary to call an ambulance at the first sign of an infectious disease. Self-medication can lead to the development of complications and dangerous consequences.

Red cheeks in a child with ARVI signal a high temperature, which at first should not be knocked down. But if it grows beyond the mark of 38.5 degrees, before the ambulance arrives, apply a napkin with cool water to the wrist and ankles. You can also wipe the entire body with a solution of vinegar.

In a child with SARS, the eye festered - there is an attachment of a bacterial infection that affects the mucous conjunctiva. This symptom is a frequent companion of colds in babies, since the virus easily moves over the surface. Babies rub their eyes and nose and involuntarily spread the infection. If a child's eyes turn sour during ARVI, complex treatment is necessary with the use of antiviral rectal suppositories, washing the mucous membrane of the eyes with special solutions, Okomistin drops containing the antimicrobial miramistin.

Prevention of SARS in children

Measures to prevent respiratory infections are an essential part of keeping a child healthy. In order for the baby not to be exposed to frequent colds, it is necessary to strengthen his immunity. Children under 1 year old can be massaged, hardened in a mild form - water the legs either with cold or warm water.

• With a surge in influenza epidemics, it is categorically not to let infected people into the house, and even healthy, but strangers.
• Before communicating with the baby, parents must wash their hands, face, remove outer clothing.
• Don't force your child to eat. Swallowing with sore throat and perspiration is not pleasant to anyone. Cook light chicken broth, porridge, mashed potatoes and give the baby only when he wants it.
• If there is a person with flu in the house, immediately apply immunomodulatory suppositories - Viferon, Kipferon.

Is the child sick? Don't Panic, Get Started

The first signs of SARS in a child: what to do? The main thing - do not panic and take effective treatment prescribed by the pediatrician. A viral infection should not be frightening, thanks to infection, the baby's body receives a dose of antigens that enhance the immune response, which will subsequently make it easy to endure the disease or bypass it.

A few words about colds in children

The common cold, and as it is often called acute respiratory infections or acute respiratory infections, is a large group of viral infections that have similar symptoms and affect different parts of the respiratory tract. Children are the most vulnerable and susceptible to colds (ARI), this is the most common diagnosis in pediatric practice, and the number of cases increases in the cold season. According to statistics, the common cold in children is 90% of the total number of infectious diseases. The cause of the disease may be hypothermia or a bacterial infection transmitted by airborne droplets. In total, there are about 200 types of viruses that cause colds, the most famous of which are adenovirus, rhinovirus, and parainfluenza.

Young children (up to 3 years old) annually from 5 to 12 times get sick with acute respiratory infections. At the same time, as a rule, those children who are less likely to come into contact with sources of infection get sick less. In big cities, because of the overcrowding of the population, colds in children are observed especially often. Breast-fed newborns and babies of the first 2-3 months of life are less susceptible to the disease, since they still have a strong immune defense transmitted by the mother. However, some adverse factors, such as poor ecology, congenital and hereditary respiratory diseases, violation of the rules and feeding regimen, insufficient child care, as well as colds among family members, significantly increase the risk of a child's illness.

Treatment of colds, acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections in children

Colds in children are treated with the help of medications and folk remedies. Recommended bed rest, drinking plenty of water, when the temperature rises above 38 degrees - antipyretics, which are prescribed by a doctor. Drugs are also prescribed for the treatment of cough, runny nose, the destruction of microbes and viruses. Antibiotics are not used to treat colds, they are connected only if complications arise, and the bacterial flora has joined the cold. In general, acute respiratory infections cause complications in children under 3 years of age and adolescents. Possible complications after acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children are sinusitis, otitis media (ear inflammation), bronchitis, pneumonia.

Colds (ARI) and flu: how to distinguish?

Only an accurate diagnosis allows you to choose an effective and adequate treatment. You can distinguish influenza from acute respiratory infections by the symptoms and nature of the course of the disease.

Signs of influenza and acute respiratory infections in some cases are similar. But with acute respiratory infections, ailments are less pronounced, while with influenza, in most cases, the patient suffers from chills and other pronounced manifestations of the disease.

With the flu, symptoms such as chills, headache, lacrimation immediately appear, body temperature rises sharply - up to 38 degrees and above. Runny nose may not be at all. The common cold ARI manifests itself gradually, begins with a severe runny nose and cough in the first days, while the temperature is not high or not at all.

The main symptoms of a cold in children:

Treatment of colds, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in children is prescribed by a doctor, but parents should also have information about the symptoms and treatment of the disease in order to meet it fully armed. As a rule, at the beginning of the disease in a child:

• loss of appetite;
• there are signs of anxiety and general malaise;
• sleep is disturbed;

These are harbingers of the disease, which serve as a signal to the mother that treatment should be started immediately. After that, other symptoms of a cold appear:

• runny nose;
• cough;
• sneezing
• headache;
• weakness;
• sore throat;
• increase in body temperature.

In addition to the above symptoms, there may be:

• stomach ache;
• pain in muscles and joints;
• redness of the eyes.

The child got sick. First steps

• Provide plenty of fluids - perhaps this is the most important condition for the speedy recovery of the child. Of the drinks, warm compote, a decoction of wild rose, lime blossom or St. John's wort, tea with raspberries, lemon (in the absence of an allergy to citrus fruits) are recommended;
• A high temperature during a cold is a sign that the child's body is fighting the disease. To help the child survive this condition as easily as possible, you can do a rubdown with water at room temperature. It is recommended to bring down the temperature only if it has risen above 38 degrees;
• Do not wrap the child in blankets; at high temperatures, it is advisable to adhere to bed rest. But you should not forcefully lay it down - if the baby feels fine, then you can play;
• Humidify the air in the room abundantly, carry out wet cleaning and ventilate the room more often;
• Take a complex anti-cold drug AntiGrippin. which quickly eliminates the symptoms of colds and flu.

inside. Children from 3 to 5 years: 1/2 tablet 2 times a day; children from 5 to 10 years old, 1 tablet 2 times a day; children from 10 to 15 years old, 1 tablet 2-3 times a day. The tablet should be completely dissolved in a glass ( 200 ml) warm water ( 50-60°С) and drink the resulting solution immediately. It is better to take the drug between meals. The interval between doses of the drug should be at least 4 hours. The duration of admission without consulting a doctor is not more than 5 days when prescribed as an anesthetic and 3 days as an antipyretic.

Does the child turn away from the medicine? With AntiGrippin for children, such problems will not arise! A warming drink with a fruity taste will appeal to even the most capricious little ones. Designed specifically for kids from 3 years old.

Family package - 30 effervescent tablets - will be especially relevant in your first aid kit in the autumn-winter season. May your child be healthy!

Folk remedies

ARI in children

11.05 Children's health This disease is considered to be an acute inflammatory disease. In this case, the respiratory tract of the child is affected. In treatment, it differs from acute respiratory viral infection in that antibiotics can be used.

Symptoms of ARI in children

• cough;
• rhinitis;
• headaches;
• pain in the throat;
• restless sleep;
• lack of appetite

Treatment of acute respiratory infections in children

In babies under one year old, this disease cannot be treated with antibacterial agents or antibiotics, which can only be prescribed if acute respiratory infections occur in parallel with a bacterial disease (otitis media, sinusitis, lymphedermatitis, conjunctivitis).

At this tender age, babies receive antiviral protection through breast milk.

Signs of acute respiratory infections in babies up to a year.

• elevated temperature;
• cough;
• runny nose;
• loss of appetite;
• disturbed sleep;
• cry;
• anxiety.

Before starting treatment, it is extremely important to establish an accurate diagnosis, for which you need to contact a pediatrician.

Basically, the therapy of the disease consists of creating favorable conditions for recovery:

1. moist, cool, ventilated air;
2. warmly;
3. a small amount of food;
4. plentiful drink.

To treat a runny nose in a baby should be washing the nose with solutions of Aquamaris, Salin.

Cough treatment requires maximum caution, so do not use vasoconstrictor drops. Only in the case when the cough is very strong, reaching the point of vomiting, the doctor can prescribe antitussives. When the cough becomes wet, expectorants are prescribed. But you should be careful with them, especially in very young children.

ARI in children is usually caused by viruses, so treatment begins with the use of antiviral agents.

How to treat ARI in children?

You can use Aflubin. When the disease is in the initial stage or during exacerbations, the medicine should be taken every hour.

• Babies under the age of one year - one drop;
• Children under 12 years old - three each;
• Teenage children - seven to ten drops.

The drug is taken three times a day when the condition improves.

Remantadine This remedy can treat children older than three years. Babies under six years of age with symptoms of acute respiratory infections should be given three times a day, half a tablet, older children - 1-2 tablets.

This medicine is given to patients only in the first days of the disease. It is preferable for a baby up to a year to instill igterferon - two drops in each nostril.
You need to bring down the temperature with drugs based on paracetamol. For babies, use candles. Kalpol, Panadol in the form of syrups are also suitable for this.

A three-year-old child can be given funds that activate the protective functions of the body - anaferon, influcid, fluphel.

Prevention of acute respiratory infections in children

A lot of attention should be paid to the prevention of this disease.

1. Lubricate your child's nose with oxolin ointment before a walk. If it was not in the house, replace it with vegetable oil.
2. Keep your child's hands clean and wash them regularly, especially after being outdoors. When you return home, be sure to change your baby's clothes. Do a thorough wet cleaning.
3. Ventilate the room regularly - this will reduce the dangerous concentration of germs and viruses in the air.

Basic principles for the treatment of acute respiratory infections

• The list of treatment methods includes the rule: it is strictly forbidden to mix medicinal and non-drug preparations.
• It is forbidden to give antibiotics to children without the written permission of the pediatrician.
• Refuse to use burning plasters, mustard plasters, cans.
• Without consulting a doctor, you cannot use physiotherapy prescriptions on your own.
• Do not rush to bring down the temperature.
• It is necessary to give food to a child only at his request and only food that is easily digested - without dairy and fatty products.
• Give your baby plenty of warm liquids.
• Set control over the humidity and temperature regime in the room where the child is most of all.
• Often, especially at night, ventilate the children's room.

ARI in children: treatment, symptoms, prevention

Acute respiratory disease (ARI) is an inflammatory disease of the airways.

In the case when ARI is caused by a viral infection, it is called ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection).

ARI has an undoubted advantage over SARS: the possibility of using antibiotics. Although, for most parents, this is a very dubious plus.

Everyone knows how often children get colds, and cough and snot are constant companions of childhood. Any mother should correctly respond to a cold disease of her child. But the treatment of the disease is the business of professionals.

Symptoms of ARI in children

The most common symptoms are:

• cough;
• runny nose;
• sneeze;
• headache;
• temperature increase;
• sore throat;
• restlessness during sleep;
• refusal of food.

The disease of her own child does not escape the attentive look of a loving mother, and therefore she immediately begins to act.

Treatment of acute respiratory infections in children

ARI in children under one year old cannot be treated with antibiotics or other antibacterial drugs. Treatment with antibiotics can only be indicated if acute respiratory infections occur in parallel with a bacterial disease (lymphadermatitis, conjunctivitis, sinusitis, otitis media).

In the first months of his life, the baby receives antiviral protection from his mother's milk.

Signs of acute respiratory infections in children under one year old:

Before starting treatment, an accurate diagnosis is required, and this can only be done by an experienced doctor. Treatment of the disease can be entrusted exclusively to the pediatrician.

In the bulk of cases, treatment is reduced to creating favorable cases for a speedy recovery:

• cool and moist circulating air;
• warm clothes;
• minimum food;
• drink maximum.

A runny nose in a child is treated with nasal lavages with special solutions:

You should not offer children vasoconstrictor drops, as the treatment of cough requires increased caution.

Antitussive drugs can be prescribed only when the child has very severe coughing attacks, sometimes reaching vomiting. Then the child begins a wet cough and he is prescribed expectorant drugs to remove sputum. However, you should be careful with these drugs, especially in children in the first months of life.

Since ARI is often caused by viruses, treatment should begin with the use of antiviral drugs.

How to treat ARI in a child?

For treatment, you can use the drug Aflubin.

At the initial stage of the disease and during exacerbations of acute respiratory infections, the medicine is recommended to be taken every half an hour or an hour.

The norm of taking the drug:

• children under one year - one drop;
• older children (up to 12 years old) - three drops;
• teenagers - 7-10 drops.

With the improvement of the general condition of the body, the drug should be taken three times a day.

The drug is intended for children over three years of age.

If symptoms of acute respiratory infections are detected, children under six years of age should be given half a tablet three times a day, children over seven years old - 1-2 tablets.

This drug is given to children only in the first days of the disease. For a child under one year old, it is best to drip igterferon (Laferon, cycloferon, fluferon) two drops into each nasal passage.

It is better to bring down the temperature with medicines based on paracetamol. For babies, it is better to use candles. Syrups (calpol, panadol) are quite suitable for them.

For a three-year-old child, drugs that activate the body's defense reaction (anaferon, engistl, influcid, fluphel) are suitable.

Prevention of acute respiratory infections in children

A lot of time should be devoted to the prevention of acute respiratory infections.

Going for a walk, you need to lubricate the baby's nose with oxolin ointment. In the event that the ointment was not at hand, it should be replaced with vegetable oil.

It is necessary to monitor the cleanliness of the child's hands, wash them constantly (especially after a walk). In the house, you should change clothes, carry out a thorough wet cleaning, wipe door handles with a weak disinfectant solution.

It is necessary to regularly ventilate the room (this can reduce the dangerous concentration of viruses and microbes in the air).

Basic rules for the treatment of acute respiratory infections in children

The list of basic rules includes the following recommendations:

• do not mix non-drug and medicinal products (treatment methods);
• it is forbidden to give children antibiotics without a written recommendation from a doctor;
• you should abandon the use of home physiotherapy (burning plasters, mustard plasters, banks);
• you can not use herbal medicine prescriptions on your own (a doctor's consultation is required);
• do not rush to bring down the temperature;
• the child should be fed only at his request, giving him easily digestible food (without fatty and dairy products);
• let the child drink more warm liquids;
• control the modes of humidity and temperature in the room (air temperature - about 20 degrees, air humidity - about 60%);
• ventilate the room more often (especially at night).

Be healthy and try never to get sick!

Video: Treatment of acute respiratory infections in children without medication

Video: Treatment of acute respiratory infections in children

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The diagnosis of acute respiratory infections is well known to every mother, because in children under 10 years old it can occur about 6-7 times a year. ARI, or acute respiratory infections, is a whole complex of diseases that are caused by different types of viruses (parainfluenza, adenovirus, rhinovirus). Once upon a time, children were immediately prescribed antibiotics to treat them, but today the approach to the treatment of respiratory infections has changed significantly, and some ailments can be cured even without the use of drugs.

ARI in children: symptoms and treatment

ARI, SARS or a cold?

In order to prescribe adequate therapy to the child when the first symptoms appear, it is first necessary to correctly determine the disease. There are significant differences between acute respiratory infections and a cold: the common cold occurs due to hypothermia of the body, and the causes of acute respiratory infections are viruses and bacteria that are present in the surrounding atmosphere.

The symptoms of a cold are usually less pronounced, develop rather slowly and do not grow, and respiratory infections (especially parainfluenza) proceed rapidly: from the moment of infection to the moment the first signs appear, it can take 1-2 days, and sometimes several hours.

As for SARS and acute respiratory infections, in the first case the disease is caused by viruses, and in the second by bacteria, but even doctors often use these concepts as synonyms.

How to distinguish flu from colds and SARS

In any case, it is not recommended to independently diagnose and prescribe treatment for a child, since in some cases (for example, with tonsillitis or bacterial infections), the use of antibiotics and other potent drugs is fully justified, and sometimes they are simply useless.

Symptoms of ARI

Typically, the incubation period of acute respiratory infections lasts up to 5 days, after which the following symptoms appear:

• rhinitis (discharge of a transparent color), nasal congestion, sneezing;
• cough, hoarseness and sore throat;
• increase in body temperature up to 38-39 degrees;
• headaches, muscle pain, ear pain;
• irritability, drowsiness, or, conversely, excessive activity;
• lack of appetite;
• general malaise.

Symptoms of ARI

The most unpleasant and severe symptoms of acute respiratory infections occur in the first few days, when the virus is actively multiplying, and the immune system has not yet given an adequate response.

In children over the age of 5 years, the disease lasts about a week, and the kids get sick for 10-14 days. If ARI was accompanied by a strong cough, it can last about 3 weeks after recovery.

The main task of parents in the treatment of respiratory diseases in a child is not only to help him cope with the disease, but also not to harm the body. Unfortunately, many parents in this case choose the wrong tactics, as a result of which the disease is delayed or complicated. So, what steps are not recommended to take in the treatment of acute respiratory infections in a child?

Acute respiratory diseases

1. Do not bring down the temperature below 38-38.5. For infants under 2 months, the allowable temperature threshold is 38 degrees, for children older than 2 months - 38.5. A fever means that the body is actively fighting pathogens, so parents who are in a hurry to bring down the fever deprive the baby's body of natural defenses and allow viruses to multiply actively. Exceptions are children who suffer from convulsive syndrome at high temperatures, as well as patients with intrauterine malformations of the central nervous system and heart, impaired metabolism, blood circulation and other congenital diseases. In such cases, the temperature should be brought down immediately.
2. Do not use antipyretics without a reason. Antipyretic drugs are allowed to be used up to 4 times a day, but it is recommended to do this only when the temperature rises above the permissible limits. Prohibited drugs also include complex drugs for the treatment of influenza like Coldrex and Fervex. In fact, they are a mixture of paracetamol with antihistamine components and vitamin C, and can only blur the overall picture of the disease and mask complications.
3. Do not put warm compresses at a temperature. Warm compresses and ointments should only be used in the absence of fever, otherwise they will only aggravate the disease, and even lead to the development of obstruction, a dangerous condition that can lead to respiratory arrest. It is also not recommended to use popular compresses and rubdowns from vinegar and alcohol - even in small doses, these substances can cause poisoning or intoxication.
4. Do not give your child antibiotics without appropriate prescriptions. Taking antibiotics is a crucial step, so the doctor should make a decision after conducting research and tests. Such drugs fight bacteria well, but they are powerless against viruses. In addition, together with harmful microorganisms, antibiotics destroy beneficial microflora and reduce immune defenses.
5. Do not dress your child in overly warm clothes. Many parents believe that additional hypothermia during acute respiratory infections will only aggravate the disease, however, overheating will not bring anything good. The best option is spacious light clothing in several layers and a thin blanket (if the child wears diapers, it is also better to remove them - urine creates a greenhouse effect, which also leads to overheating). Thus, the body will freely lose heat and independently regulate the temperature.
6. Do not force the baby to eat or lie down. Do not ignore the requirements of the child's body during illness. Most children refuse to eat during such periods, which is an absolutely normal phenomenon, since all the energy is directed to the fight against the disease. Bed rest is indicated only in severe cases, so forcing the baby to constantly lie in bed is also not worth it - he will lie down on his own if he feels bad.

The main causative agents of acute respiratory infections in children

The first actions of adults should be aimed at creating an atmosphere around the baby that promotes the body's fight against viruses.

1. Healthy atmosphere. The least favorable environment for bacteria and viruses is moist, cool air (temperature - 20-21 degrees, humidity - 50-70%). In addition, in such an atmosphere, mucus does not accumulate in the respiratory tract of the child, which greatly facilitates her well-being. Accordingly, in the room where the baby is located, you need to create the appropriate temperature and humidity - regularly ventilate the room and hang wet rags on the batteries.
2. Plentiful drink. With colds and viral diseases, the body actively loses fluid, so you need to drink the patient often and plentifully. Drinking should be non-carbonated and approximately correspond to body temperature - that is, it should not be too hot, but not cold. If the child shows signs of dehydration (dry tongue, infrequent urination), you need to give him a saline solution to drink: " Regidron», « Humana Electrolyte" etc.
3. Washing the nose. It is necessary to rinse the nose with acute respiratory infections as often as possible, using preparations with sea water for this (“ Humer», « Aquamaris», « Marimer”), regular saline solution or homemade sea salt solution (a teaspoon in two glasses of water). They well dry the mucous membrane of the nasal passages, wash off pathogenic microorganisms from it and thin the mucus.

How to rinse your child's nose

Subject to these simple rules, the treatment of acute respiratory infections will require no more than 5-6 days. If the symptoms do not go away or worsen, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Medications for acute respiratory infections in a child

Antivirals

Drugs that activate the production of interferon and contribute to the destruction of viruses will bring much more benefit and less harm, but there are several nuances here. The body gets used to antiviral drugs much faster than other drugs, so you should not use them without special need or as a prophylaxis (with the exception of a number of drugs that are approved for prophylactic use). Antiviral drugs used to treat acute respiratory infections are divided into two groups: extended-acting drugs and those aimed at combating respiratory infections. Choose a specific drug should be based on the age of the baby and the characteristics of the disease.

Flu medications

Complex preparations

Before using any of the above drugs, you should make sure that there are no allergic reactions, and also consult your doctor.

Cold drops

Any drugs against the common cold, with the exception of drops based on salt water, are recommended to be used only in cases where the disease causes serious discomfort to the child. In the initial stages of the disease, when liquid clear mucus is released from the nasal passages, vasoconstrictors can be used to reduce swelling and make breathing easier. The drugs in this group include:

• "Nazivin";
• "Otrivin";
• "Sanorin";
• "Vibrocil";
• "Tizin".

Forms of release of drops from the common cold Nazivin for children

It is important to remember that vasoconstrictor drops for children (especially under the age of 3 years) should have a reduced concentration. In addition, you must strictly observe the dosage and do not use drugs for more than 5 days, otherwise they can be addictive.

In the later stages of rhinitis, when the mucus becomes thick and difficult to remove from the nasal passages, antibacterial drugs can be used: Collargol», « Protargol», « Pinosol". These tools also have their own characteristics and disadvantages. "Protargol" contains silver ions, which effectively kill most bacteria without the use of antibiotics, but silver is not excreted from the body on its own and tends to accumulate in tissues. "Pinosol" is a natural preparation based on essential oils, which has a mild long-lasting effect, but thick oils impede the natural outflow of mucus.

Antibacterial drug Sialor Protargol

Cough preparations

ARI usually begins with a dry cough, after which the sputum begins to flow, and the cough becomes wet. It is not recommended to actively fight cough with respiratory infections - it is a natural protective reaction of the body and contributes to the removal of bacteria and viruses from the body. Expectorant and mucolytic drugs are recommended to be taken only in cases where acute respiratory infections are complicated by bronchitis or pneumonia and only for medical reasons (at the age of less than 2 years, most drugs that dilute sputum are prohibited). If the child has a sore throat, use cough drops (" Bronchicum», « Linkas"") or sprays (" Ingalipt», « Pharyngosept», « Tantum Verde»).

Spray Tantum Verde for sore throat

Folk remedies

The use of folk remedies against acute respiratory infections in children should also be balanced and thoughtful, since they can also cause side effects and allergic reactions (especially for infants under one year old).

1. With a strong cough and sore throat, the child's condition can be relieved by warm milk with the addition of honey and soda on the tip of a knife, viburnum berries mashed with sugar, or a piece of ordinary butter. In addition, pharmacies sell herbal antitussive preparations designed specifically for children.

   Milk and honey for sore throat with acute respiratory infections

2. Another good cough remedy is radish juice with honey. Raw radish should be grated, covered with sugar and wait until juice starts to stand out from it - it should be taken in a tablespoon every hour.
3. In order for toxins to leave the body as quickly as possible, you can drink diaphoretic teas from raspberries and lingonberries in any form, and you can brew both berries and leaves. You can also give the child a rosehip decoction to drink, which has an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effect.
4. With bacteria that multiply on the mucous membrane of the throat, rinsing with a soda solution with the addition of sea salt and a few drops of iodine is well fought.
5. High temperatures are well knocked down by linden tea or a weak infusion of chamomile.

   Tea with linden from high temperature with acute respiratory infections

6. If the temperature is normal, you can give the child inhalations with the addition of herbal infusions (sage, eucalyptus, chamomile) and warming compresses on the throat, back and feet.

The best way to deal with ARI in children is not treatment, but prevention. To reduce the risk of respiratory infections, the child needs proper nutrition, hardening (within reasonable limits), taking vitamins and regular walks in the fresh air. During periods of pandemics, it is better to avoid crowded places, lubricate the baby's nostrils with oxolin ointment before going outside, and after returning home, rinse the nasal passages with preparations based on sea water or saline.

Video - Treatment of acute respiratory infections in children

Although many people think that a child can catch a cold without dressing warmly enough during the cold season, this is still a myth. The real cause of ARI is one of more than 200 viruses and bacteria.

Causes of ARI in a child

The common cold is spread by airborne droplets (by breathing in viral particles) if there is an infected person nearby who sneezes, coughs, speaks, or blows his nose into a handkerchief. Your child can also catch the virus by touching a contaminated surface that an infected person has touched.

The most common items from which you can pick up viruses or bacteria include:

• Door handles
• Phones
• Kids toys
• Towels
• Handrails in public transport

According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, rhinoviruses (which cause the most upper respiratory infections) can live up to three hours on hard surfaces and hands.

Of the known viruses, most can be classified and divided into several groups:

• Rhinoviruses
• Coronaviruses
• parainfluenza viruses
• Adenoviruses

Some other common culprits that provoke acute respiratory infections are also isolated, for example, respiratory syncytial virus. Modern science has not yet identified some of the causative agents of ARI and scientists are still working on it.

In countries with a temperate climate, colds occur most often in autumn and winter. Factors such as the beginning of the school year for schoolchildren and students play an important role here, and this often happens due to the fact that children are on duty indoors and come into contact with infected peers and other people. Indoor air is usually drier. This contributes to the drying of the nasal passages, which leads to an increased risk of infection. Humidity levels tend to be lower in winter, and bacteria with viruses that cause colds survive better in low humidity conditions.

Symptoms of ARI in a child

The common cold (CRI) can lead to nasal congestion followed by a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough. Symptoms of acute respiratory infections in young children can last up to two weeks, while older children usually do not get sick for more than one week, of course there are exceptions.

The first symptom of a cold is usually a sore or irritated throat. Following the first symptom, others follow, which include:

• Nasal congestion - the cause is the accumulation of sputum or mucus;
• Pain and irritation in the nose;
• sneezing;
• Runny nose (discharge from the nose) - discharge at the beginning of the disease, as a rule, is transparent, but over time they can become thicker and darker;
• Cough - this symptom occurs in 30% of cases;
• Hoarse voice;
• Poor general health.

Less common symptoms of a cold in a child include:

• An increase in body temperature (fever) up to about 38-39 ° C;
• Headache (see Headache in a Child);
• Ear pain - severe ear pain can be a sign of a middle ear infection (otitis media);
• muscle pain;
• Loss of taste and smell;
• mild eye irritation;
• Sensation of pressure in the ears.

The most unpleasant and severe symptoms of a cold (ARI) in a child occur in the first 2-3 days of illness, after which there is a gradual improvement in the condition. In older children, a cold usually lasts about a week, while in young children (under 5 years old) a cold can last 10 to 14 days. However, if your child has a cough, it can last up to three weeks. If a child develops symptoms of acute respiratory infections, it is necessary to adhere to special actions in order not only to help him recover, but also not to harm him with wrong actions.

Treatment of acute respiratory infections in a child

It happens that parents, out of their own ignorance, act absolutely wrong, not even realizing that they are harming their own child. Therefore, let's take a look at how it is worth treating a child for acute respiratory infections, and what should not be done in any case.

Don't bring the temperature down below 38.5˚C

If we are talking about babies up to 2 months old, then the temperature below 38˚C should not be brought down, and in children from 2 months and above, the threshold is 38.5˚C. Fever is the body's natural defense against all kinds of infections and viruses. Never bring down a slightly elevated temperature (up to 38.5˚C) in a child. By doing this, you deprive the child's body of natural protection and allow bacteria to multiply intensively.

Exceptions!

• If the child is very pale, if he is in severe pain, if the child has impaired consciousness and malaise, then at any elevated temperature, an antipyretic should be given.
• Children with intrauterine lesions of the central nervous system, with congenital heart defects and impaired blood circulation, with abnormal metabolic processes inherited, as well as children who have had convulsions at elevated temperatures - temperatures above 38˚C must be immediately brought down.

Do not give antipyretics for a long time

The systemic use of antipyretic drugs (up to 4 times a day) is justified only when the child's temperature constantly starts to go off scale. During acute respiratory infections, you should not constantly give antipyretics if there is no reason, because you can mask the complications that occur with this disease, such as pneumonia or otitis media.

Don't wrap your baby in warm

At elevated body temperature, especially at high temperature, in no case should you wrap the child in a warm blanket and put warm clothes on him. This can cause overheating of the body and worsen the child's well-being, up to loss of consciousness. Dress your child in loose, light clothes, and if you cover him with a blanket, it should not be warm so as not to cause the child's body to overheat. The body must freely lose heat, thereby maintaining a normal body temperature.

Do not immediately start taking antibiotics

Taking antibiotics is a very important step, because these drugs are not only able to quickly cope with the bacteria that caused acute respiratory infections, but they also easily destroy the intestinal microflora necessary for the child's body and significantly reduce immunity. Antibiotics must be prescribed by a doctor and are usually prescribed for complications such as ear infections, pneumonia or sinusitis. It happens that parents confuse ARI and SARS. With acute respiratory infections, the causative agent is a bacterial infection, and with SARS, the causative agent of the disease is a virus. Well, antibiotics don't work on viruses at all. They will destroy the beneficial intestinal microflora of the child, "plant" the immune system, but there will be no result. We repeat once again - only a doctor after a blood test can prescribe an antibiotic to a child in case of complications of a bacterial infection, not a parent. If the doctor prescribes antibiotics before identifying the cause of the disease, then you should still wait until the causative agent of the disease (bacterium or virus) is determined and “dance” from this. If your child has been prescribed a course of antibiotics, you should also take probiotics at the same time and after they stop taking them. For information on how to take them and why, read here - How to take probiotics while taking antibiotics.

Do not feed the child if he does not want to eat

As a rule, in most cases, a sick child will refuse to eat. This is normal, because all the energy of the body will be directed to the fight against the disease. It is necessary to listen to the needs of the child during acute respiratory infections and in no case force him to do what he does not want.

Do not force your child to lie in bed

Bed rest is indicated only in severe cases of the disease. As a rule, the child himself will lie down when he feels unwell.

How to properly treat ARI in a child

Usually ARI in a child goes away by itself within 4-7 days. It is important not to make the above mistakes. On the way to recovery, the child will encounter the following symptoms, which, for our part, as parents, can mitigate and help the child endure them with less discomfort:

• Runny nose. A runny nose in a child is best treated with special products based on sea water, such as Aquamaris, Fisomer, Salin, Humer, etc. These products are produced in the form of drops and sprays and are suitable for children almost from the first days of life. As for vasoconstrictor drops and sprays, they can be used no more than 3 days in a row. They have a lot of side effects and do not eliminate the causes of a runny nose, so before using such drugs, think about the consequences or consult a doctor. Natural drops that you can prepare yourself at home can also help your child. Read - How to get rid of a runny nose - ways and recipes.
• Cough. It all starts with a dry cough. It usually lasts 3 days, after which there is a period of sputum withdrawal, the so-called wet cough. When we cough, we eliminate unnecessary particles, bacteria and viruses from the throat, bronchi and lungs. With acute respiratory infections, drugs aimed at reducing dry cough and expectorants should not be used. They are used for other purposes and for other respiratory diseases. If the child is already old enough, then to reduce pain and speed up recovery, he should gargle with warm soda solution as often as possible, possibly with the addition of salt (sea salt) and a few drops of iodine. If your child is already 3 years old and is not allergic to honey, this bee product can also be used. Read - Cough Honey - by the mouths of scientists. Also, children's lozenges or cough sprays will help reduce pain and eliminate bacteria in the throat.

Give your child plenty of fluids when sick. Starting from the age of 1, give your child warm tea with lemon more often, and if there is no allergy to honey, then do not forget to put it. You can also give cranberry or lingonberry natural fruit drink, freshly squeezed fruit juices, still mineral water and compotes. Do not give your child canned foods, fatty meats and other heavy foods. It is best to feed your baby liquid and semi-liquid food in small portions when he wants to.

Be sure to ventilate the room more often and do wet cleaning of the apartment or house. Fresh air has a positive effect on the condition of the baby. Usually in the open air the coryza is reduced and breathing is facilitated.

Attention! Since the signs of acute respiratory infections are similar to the manifestations of more severe and dangerous infectious diseases, we recommend that you do not self-medicate and consult a doctor to establish the correct diagnosis. Your baby's health is in your hands. Be carefull.

ARI in children is one of the most common diseases. Most often, acute respiratory infections occur in children aged 2 to 13 years. In the first 2 years, acute respiratory infections are often complicated by infectious processes in the organs of the upper or lower respiratory system.

The concept of acute respiratory infections includes multiple diseases - from a simple cold to bronchitis or tracheitis. Symptoms of acute respiratory infections in children of the first 3 years of life can last up to 14 days, while in older children the symptoms last no more than one week (these are average data).

Why diseases occur

All diseases that are included in the list of acute respiratory infections are caused by certain pathogens. Foreign agents enter the body in various ways:

• airborne way;
• household contact method.

There are also certain factors that contribute to the appearance of the disease, these include:

• allergic reactions;
• somatic diseases;
• intrauterine infectious processes;
• unfavorable environment.

Viruses and bacteria are the two types of pathogens that cause the most common off-season illnesses of the virus and influenza. ARVI is a whole group of diseases caused by viruses. In most cases, they occur in young children. As soon as viruses enter the nasal mucosa, the baby begins to develop rhinitis, inflammation of the pharynx leads to pharyngitis, and the larynx to laryngitis. SARS can occur with complications, if the bronchi are involved in the inflammatory process, then it is almost impossible to avoid pneumonia. Inflammation of the nasopharynx, pharynx, larynx - talking about the defeat of the upper respiratory tract. Diseases of the lower respiratory tract are manifested in the defeat of the trachea, bronchi, lungs and bronchioles.

A bacterial infection can also join SARS, which is accompanied by a repeated increase in temperature, signs of intoxication may occur, as well as general malaise, manifested in anxiety, pallor, weakness and sweating. Often, patients refuse to eat and drink, children become excited or, on the contrary, indifferent to others.

For influenza, the characters are various pathogens, for example, A, B, C and parainfluenza, as well as adenovirus and respiratory, rhinovirus, enterovirus infections. Each child reacts to various pathogens individually. In infancy, it is determined by passive immunity, which the mother passes on to the baby during pregnancy and with breast milk. At an older age, sensitivity to diseases is determined directly by the child's own immunity.

Viruses are transmitted by airborne droplets.

Flu symptoms:

The first sign of influenza is an increase in body temperature to 39-40 ° C, and it can stay high for several days.
Strong headache.
Sore throat, nasal congestion, hoarseness, general malaise.
Lachrymation.
Muscle pain.
Frequent dry and painful cough that becomes loose after 2-3 days.
In babies under one year old, there is a strong restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, vomiting, refusal of the breast, and frequent dry coughing. Often the tummy is swollen, frequent, loose stools with mucus impurities appear. At night, the child breathes through a half-open mouth, sniffs through the nose.

SARS symptoms:

Nasal congestion and mucous discharge from it.
Dry or wet cough.
An increase in body temperature up to 38-39 ° C.
Redness and friability of the tonsils and posterior pharyngeal wall.
Minor sore throat.
Headache.
Lethargy, drowsiness, weakness, poor appetite.

Symptoms of acute otitis:

In infants - severe anxiety, complete refusal to eat (when swallowing, the pain in the ear increases sharply).
Pain in the ear, especially when pressing on the middle of the ear (tragus).

Bronchitis symptoms:

The baby has rapid, labored breathing, sometimes grunting.

Symptoms of streptococcal and viral throat infections:

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Mucus in the throat and a red pharynx with or without plaque (a throat swab is taken to determine this infection).

When urgent care is needed:

If the temperature is above 39 ° C and it cannot be brought down with the help of medicines.
If the child has a dry "barking" cough with difficulty breathing and wheezing.
If the baby is very anxious and refuses to breastfeed within a few hours.
If the child has acute ear pain and fever.

When to call a doctor from the clinic:

When the child has symptoms of the flu or SARS.
When the temperature rose.

Help before the doctor arrives:

1. From the first hours of ARVI, interferon preparations are very effective, which suppress the reproduction of viruses and prevent the spread of inflammation.

3. At high temperatures (38.5 ° C and above), it must be reduced in the following ways:
give the baby antipyretic drugs: paracetamol or analgin in age doses. Put the tablet in 1 tbsp. Spoon, grind with another spoon, add a little sugar and water. Have your child drink this mixture with warm water. For infants and young children, it is better to use rectal suppositories. It is not necessary to reduce the temperature to 38 ° C, as it has a detrimental effect on viruses. Exceptions are children who develop a convulsive syndrome;
The child should be dressed in light cotton clothing. Give the child air baths, wipe the baby with a diaper soaked in water at room temperature, put a damp cloth on the head;
if the temperature continues to rise, you can do a wet wrapping of the entire body of the baby in a large diaper;
if the child has cold hands and feet, put a heating pad on them, put on woolen socks and mittens, that is, try to warm them. To relieve spasm, give the child no-shpu (1/4 tablet up to 3 years, 1/3 tablet - up to 5 years, 1/2 tablet - up to 7 years, after 7 years - a whole tablet;
wipe the child with water at room temperature (you can half with vinegar or vodka) and cover with a thin sheet. Do this several times until the temperature drops. The rubdown can be started after you have given the pill, which only starts working after 40 minutes;
at a high temperature, an enema with water at room temperature is effective.

4. If an infant is sick, change his body position more often - this contributes to the effective drainage of the lungs.

5. After a course of antibiotics (prescribed by a doctor), it is necessary to give biological preparations to restore the natural intestinal flora: bifidumbacterin or primadofilus.

6. If a nursing baby has a runny nose, clear the mucus from his nose and drip breast milk. For older children, use vasoconstrictor drops (children's naphthyzinum - 0.6 percent). To drip drops into the nose of the baby, you need to lay him on his side in the direction in which half of the nose you will drip, then change position. Bury 1-2 drops in each nostril.

Traditional medicine for ARVI:

Put pieces of cotton wool moistened with onion juice into the nose 3-4 times a day for 10-15 minutes.

Freshly squeezed carrot juice and vegetable oil in a 1:1 ratio are mixed with a few drops of garlic juice and instilled into the nose several times a day.

Grate the garlic on a fine grater or crush it well and mix with honey, preferably lime, in a ratio of 1: 1. Give the child at bedtime 1 teaspoon (up to 5 years) or 1 tbsp. spoon (after 5 years). At high temperatures, garlic should not be used, as it can increase the heartbeat!

Mince 3 cloves of garlic or mash it thoroughly and mix with a glass of freshly squeezed carrot juice. Leave to infuse for 4-6 hours. Have your child drink this mixture throughout the day in 3 doses.

Pour 50 ml of warm water 3 tbsp. spoons of finely chopped onion, add 1/2 teaspoon of honey, leave for 30 minutes and instill in the nose.

Make a 30% solution of honey in the juice of raw red beets and instill 5-6 drops in each nostril 4-5 times a day.

Grate the onion and put the resulting mass on cheesecloth, folded in half. Apply a compress to the lower part of the nose, after lubricating it with sunflower oil. Keep 4-10 minutes. Follow the procedure 3 times a day. This will help stop the development of the disease.

Mix 1 tbsp. a spoonful of wild rosemary with 1/2 cup of sunflower oil and boil the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes, then cool and strain. Bury 2-3 drops 3-4 times a day.

Do inhalation: a handful of chamomile flowers, crushed peppermint and sage leaves, pour 1/4 liter of boiling water and let it brew, then add hot water, bringing the volume of liquid to 1 liter. Place the child so that he can breathe the steam over the bowl, cover his head with a large terry towel and make sure that he inhales the steam alternately through his nose and mouth. The duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes.