Upper respiratory infections, such as laryngitis, the common cold, or sinusitis, impact millions of Americans annually. While most of these viral or bacterial infections resolve on their own, some need treatment with a primary care physician – particularly when the patient is a senior. Let us explore more about these potentially harmful ailments and what the elderly should do to get healthy and stay that way for the long term.
Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections
Upper respiratory infections have a variety of symptoms. These symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe and may last from several days to weeks. In elderly individuals, upper respiratory infections may worsen the symptoms of pre-existing health conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The upper respiratory infections we often see at Intercoastal Medical Group include:
- Pharyngitis, or sore throat.
- Laryngitis, or inflammation of the voice box.
- The common cold.
- Sinusitis, an infection of the air-filled sinuses behind the forehead and cheek bones.
- Epiglottis, or inflammation of the covering between the larynx, or voice box, and the trachea.
Additionally, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is becoming more and more prevalent. This very contagious illness most commonly affects very young children and adults aged 65 and older with severe respiratory symptoms.
In general, symptoms of upper respiratory infections include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
Why Upper Respiratory Infections Can Be Dangerous for Seniors
Due to the natural aging process, weaker natural immunity, and pre-existing health problems, elderly patients require special care and consideration when dealing with upper respiratory infections. They may experience more severe symptoms, take substantially longer to recover, and may even need to be hospitalized in order to get well. In fact, statistics show that up to 10,000 elderly Americans die from severe cases of RSV annually. In addition, almost three-quarters of influenza deaths happen to individuals ages 65 and up.
Caring For and Preventing Upper Respiratory Infections in the Elderly
When it comes to caring for elderly loved ones with an upper respiratory infection, the most important thing is to seek medical attention promptly. This is especially true if the senior has underlying health conditions or is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, cyanosis (poor oxygen levels which turn the lips blue), mental confusion or high fever.
In addition to seeking medical care, there are also preventive steps you can take to stave off upper respiratory infections in seniors. These include the following common-sense strategies:
- Encourage frequent hand washing and avoid close contact with noticeably sick individuals.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, bathroom surfaces, phones, and TV remotes.
- Encourage a healthy diet rich in nutrients to help boost the immune system.
- Keep the home environment very clean and free of irritants or pollutants which can worsen respiratory symptoms, such as strong-smelling fragrances or fireplace smoke.
- Stay out of crowds at the movies, shopping centers, and other venues with large number of people packed into limited space.
- Receive vaccinations as recommended by the primary care physician, including the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine.
- Avoid all cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
If you see a senior experiencing severe upper respiratory symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical assistance from his or her primary care physician or, if necessary, the local hospital emergency room. The sooner an older person gets needed treatment, the better the chances are for a full recovery.
Upper Respiratory Infection Treatment in Sarasota, FL
At Intercoastal Medical Group, our board-certified physicians promote preventive health measures which help keep their senior patients as healthy as possible during the months when upper respiratory infections occur frequently. Plus, they alert patients and family members to the signs of life-threatening complications.
If you see elderly loved ones experiencing serious upper respiratory symptoms, please contact the location of Intercoastal Medical Group right away for an in-office consultation. We have 10 offices in the Sarasota, FL, area, fully staffed with experienced and caring doctors who are passionate about the health and well-being of their patients. Remember, we are here to help you enjoy a long and vibrant life.
