Causes and risk factors
There are a variety of infectious diseases like Chickenpox, small pox, measles, Tuberculosis, Pertussis, and Meningitis etc. These infections are caused by a variety of organisms like fungi, bacteria, viruses or parasites. The infection spreads directly or indirectly from person to person or is transmitted by some insects or animals. The infection enters the body of the host either by ingestion of some contaminated food, or
through the air, coughing and sneezing creates droplets into the air which spreads the infection. The infection can also spread through direct contact or through contact with the contaminated surfaces. Contact with the bird droppings can also spread the infection. Young children, old people and people with Immuncompromised are more prone to develop infections. The infection can also be transmitted to the baby from mother through placenta.
Clinical presentation:
The symptoms vary as per the infection. However the cardinal symptoms of any diseases are fever, with or without chills, body ache, fatigue, weakness and headache. Depending upon the portal entry of the organisms the signs and symptoms may vary. In cases of gastric ingestion the patient can complain of pain in abdomen, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or dysentery. In cases where the infection spreads through droplets of air, the presenting features are cough, sore throat, Coryza sneezing. It can lead to complications like bronchitis, pneumonia, and ear and sinus infection.
Investigations:
The diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and certain physical examination is carried by the doctor. Certain sets of investigations can also be advised which will aid in the confirmation of the disease. Swabs from patient’s nose or throat or sputum are tested. The other tests include the complete blood count, urine routine, stool test and CSF examination. X-ray and ultrasonography of abdomen and pelvis can be done. MRI or CT scan can be done to find out the underlying disease in severe cases.
Treatment:
Rest is important part of treatment. Diet should consist of adequate liquids like milk, fruit juices and hot drinks .Oral hygiene and electrolyte balance should be maintained. Antiviral, antibacterial, analgesics or pain relieving medications are started. Antibiotics are discouraged until complications are suspected. Depending upon the symptoms severity hospitalization and intravenous fluid administration is initiated.
Vaccination against Infection is an important prophylactic measure. Maintaining personal and environmental hygiene should be implemented. Avoidance of crowded areas at times of active infection will help to prevent the spread
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
