5 Ways to Prevent Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections are common and likely to catch up with most of the population, especially during cold and flu season. But that doesn’t mean you have to resign to put up with one. It’s much easier to take preventative measures that help you avoid upper respiratory infections than to muddle through one. 

Schaumburg Immediate Care sees patients of all ages and backgrounds for the treatment of upper respiratory infections. That’s how we know these common illnesses can cause severe damage in specific populations. And even if you’re not likely to experience severe effects, we recommend avoiding the problem altogether. We’re happy to show you how.

5 ways to prevent upper respiratory infections 

1. Hygiene, hygiene, hygiene 

One of the best and most effective ways to avoid contracting an upper respiratory infection is to practice basic hygiene. Cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze, wash your hands (especially after interacting with someone else), use hand sanitizer when you can’t wash up right away, and avoid touching your mouth, eyes, and nose, especially when you’re out. 

These basic hygiene tips can’t be overstated. Remember, upper respiratory infections spread from person to person, so as long as you keep this in mind, you’ll be able to do a lot of the heavy lifting that prevents it from getting to you. 

2. Focus on air quality 

Flu season is most serious between December and February in the northern hemisphere. That’s because more people are indoors, sheltering from the cold and passing their germs back and forth to one another without any ventilation. The central heat cycles the same air through, meaning there’s no fresh air coming in to push the contaminated air away. 

However, in warmer climates, such as the southern states, the summer can cause these same conditions, with people gathering inside to beat the heat. If you see these kinds of actions in your home, make sure you get some fresh air moving through your house when you can or go outside for a walk when possible. An air filter doesn’t hurt, either!

3. Get vaccinated

This is another easy puzzle piece that can’t be overstated. When you get vaccinated properly, you may still get one of these infections, but the effect will be much less severe if you do contract them. This also helps your community as well; the more people that get vaccinated, the harder it is for the infection to spread. 

4. Eat right

Your diet can affect your body’s ability to resist an infection. If you’re eating junk food all the time, your immunity won’t be as strong. But eating fruits and vegetables will create a stronger, healthier you that’s able to fight off infections much more easily. Supplements can also be a part of your diet if you’re not getting enough of certain nutrients, like vitamin C. 

5. Get enough sleep

Again, how can we explain how important sleep is to your daily function, not to mention when you’re preventing illness? If your body doesn’t have enough rest, it can’t protect you. Inflammation also increases in the body, which will make you even sleepier and your immune system less functional. Whatever you do, ensure you get the proper amount of sleep. 

Bonus: What if I already have an upper respiratory infection? 

Avoiding the spread of an upper respiratory illness is still possible, even if you’re already sick. You can make sure not to spread it to your family, friends, and coworkers by quarantining yourself and not going to work or school. Also, you’ll need to rest and drink plenty of fluids. And don’t go back to your regular life until you’re sure you’re well. Even then, wear a mask. 

Do I need treatment for an upper respiratory infection? 

In many cases, there are several treatments that can help minimize your symptoms and help you feel better faster. You deserve to avoid a long, drawn-out illness. Let us help you get back to feeling like yourself. 

To make an appointment at our Schaumburg, IL, office, call us at 847-250-1700. You can also schedule with us online.