Autumn is a time of year when people start to spend more time indoors, which can increase the risk of respiratory infections. These infections can range from mild colds to more serious conditions like pneumonia. It is important to be aware of the types of respiratory infections and conditions that can occur during this season, as well as how to prevent and treat them.
One of the most common respiratory illnesses during the autumn months is the common cold. Symptoms of a cold include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a cough, and sometimes a fever or body aches. Colds are caused by viruses and are usually mild, but they can be uncomfortable and make you feel miserable. There is no cure for a cold, but over-the-counter medications can help to relieve the symptoms.
Another ailment that is common during the autumn months is the flu. The flu is also caused by a virus but is more serious than a cold. Symptoms of the flu include a high fever, body aches, fatigue, and a cough. Having the flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that can be caused by bacteria or a virus. Symptoms of pneumonia include a high fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Pneumonia can be serious and even life-threatening, especially for people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. It is important to see a doctor if you think you might have pneumonia and to follow their treatment recommendations.
Apart from seasonal illnesses, many people live with other chronic respiratory problems like asthma and COPD.
Asthma affects the airways in the lungs. Why some people develop asthma and others don’t is unclear, but asthma can be caused by allergies, environmental factors (like exposure to certain chemicals, toxins or even smoke), genetics and some respiratory infections like RSV that damage the developing lungs of young children. People with asthma have airways that are sensitive and prone to inflammation, which can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Asthma attacks can then be triggered by a variety of substances including air pollution, dust mites, mould, pets, smoke and even exercise. It is important for people with asthma to manage their condition and be aware of their specific triggers so that these can be avoided to prevent asthma attacks.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of progressive respiratory conditions that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is characterized by difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. It is often caused by smoking, but it can also be caused by exposure to air pollution or other irritants. COPD is a serious condition that can lead to complications like lung infections and heart problems. It is important for people with COPD to manage their condition and avoid triggers to prevent flare-ups.
There are steps you can take to prevent respiratory infections and alleviate their symptoms during the autumn months. Washing your hands frequently with a liquid cleanser and water can also help to prevent the spread of respiratory infections. Avoiding close contact with people who are sick and covering your mouth and nose when you cough, or sneeze, can also help to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.
Of course, the first prize is to stay healthy if you can. Some ways you can boost your overall health and therefore your body’s defences include:
- getting enough sleep,
- eating a diet rich in whole plant foods & healthy fats,
- supporting your digestion with probiotics, either by eating fermented foods like sauerkraut or yoghurt, or taking a good supplement,
- limiting your sugar intake,
- getting some moderate exercise,
- staying hydrated,
- managing your stress and
- supplementing wisely with vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, elderberry, echinacea and even garlic.
The role of Trifectiv Plus Air nebulising fluid in supporting the healing process is recognised in a variety of lung conditions. The active ingredient in Trifectiv Air, namely hypochlorous acid, demonstrates anti-inflammatory and anti-infective properties, which might be responsible for the quick recovery patients with lung conditions experience when they nebulise regularly with Trifectiv Plus Air. We recommend nebulising once per day with 5 ml of Trifectiv Plus Air through a mesh nebuliser to prevent lung infections. If you are managing conditions like asthma or COPD you might find more regular nebulising with Trifectiv Plus Air is beneficial. If you have an active infection, then increase this to three times a day to support the lungs and airways. Trifectiv Plus Air should not be used together with cortisone or steroid lung therapies as the two ingredients tend to cancel each other out and you won’t get the benefit of either one.
If you do develop a respiratory infection or condition, it is important to also see a doctor for proper treatment. Over-the-counter medications can help to relieve symptoms, but it is important to follow your doctor's treatment recommendations to ensure that you fully recover. In some cases, antibiotics or other medications may be necessary to treat the infection or condition.
In conclusion, respiratory infections and conditions are common during the autumn months. It is important to be aware of the types of respiratory infections and conditions that can occur, as well as how to prevent and treat them. By following good hygiene practices, and supporting your health in general, you can help to protect yourself from respiratory infections and conditions during the autumn season.