ISPA (Acute Respiratory Tract Infection) refers to a sudden infection in the respiratory tract. The main causes of this disease include bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Some diseases that fall into the category of ISPA include influenza, bronchitis, cough and cold, pneumonia, and sinusitis. The level of seriousness of these diseases varies, influenced by the situation and condition of the patient.
The condition of ARI cannot be ignored. If not treated immediately, this condition can develop into dangerous complications. This article will discuss the symptoms, complications of ARI, and how you can prevent this disease.
Symptoms of ARI
Symptoms of ARI can vary depending on which part of the respiratory tract is infected. If an infection occurs in the upper respiratory tract, the symptoms generally felt are as follows:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Easily tired
- Stuffy nose and runny nose
- Headache
- Sneeze
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
However, if the infection occurs in the lower respiratory tract, the sufferer will experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Cough with phlegm
- Fever
Complications of ARI
Complications that arise from ARI can be very dangerous, especially if the symptoms are not handled properly. Here are some complications of ARI that are important to know before it's too late:
1. Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which play an important role in carrying air in and out of the lungs.
This disease is included in the category of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If left untreated, this condition can damage the lungs' ability to function properly.
2. Emphysema
Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that occurs due to permanent damage to the alveoli, the air sacs in the lungs.
Damage to the alveoli interferes with the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, causing shortness of breath and air accumulation in the lungs.
Emphysema is generally caused by exposure to cigarettes. However, if the ARI is not treated properly and continues to be exposed to cigarette smoke, the risk of the sufferer experiencing emphysema will increase.
3. Lung Abscess
This serious condition occurs when pus-filled pockets form in the lung tissue due to an untreated infection. Symptoms include difficulty breathing and coughing up blood-tinged or pus-tinged sputum.
If this disease is not treated immediately, sufferers can experience difficulty breathing, infections that spread to other parts of the body, and potentially be life-threatening.
4. Empyema
This disease is characterized by the accumulation of pus in the lungs, especially the pleural cavity. The infection that occurs causes fluid to accumulate in the cavity, which then becomes infected and becomes pus.
If not treated immediately, empyema can trigger complications of other diseases, namely collapsed lungs, fibrosis, sepsis, and reduced lung function.
5. Sepsis
This condition occurs when the body responds too strongly to an infection. Sepsis causes serious inflammation that damages the body. The inflammation causes blood to clot.
As a result, the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the heart and other vital organs is reduced, causing vital organs to start to malfunction. If not treated properly, sepsis can lead to death.
6. Mastoiditis
ARI can trigger middle ear infections, which if left untreated can lead to mastoiditis, an infection that attacks the mastoid bone located behind the ear.
The cause of this disease is inflammation and accumulation of pus in the mastoid bone. This infection is serious and requires immediate medical attention, because if left untreated the infection can spread to the brain.
In severe cases, people with ARI are at risk of experiencing serious complications, such as heart failure, increased carbon dioxide levels, and decreased lung function which can be fatal.
How to Prevent ARI
Follow these steps to reduce your chances of contracting ARI, as follows:
- Maintain cleanliness by washing your hands, both before eating and after traveling.
- Stay away from the habit of smoking.
- Consume nutritious foods and vitamins.
- Practice a healthy lifestyle by exercising.
- Wear a mask when in public places.
Maintain your hygiene and diet to avoid the risk of ARI and other diseases. You also need to exercise regularly and get enough rest, so that your immune system remains strong to prevent infection.
Consult a doctor immediately if ARI symptoms worsen. With proper treatment, the risk of developing ARI complications will decrease and your symptoms will gradually improve.
Article written by dr. Jubilette Windy, M.Ked (Lung), Sp.P (Lung & Respiratory Specialist Doctor, EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).