Causes, symptoms and easy home remedies to cure acute viral illness
Acute viral illnesses commonly affect the respiratory or gastrointestinal systems, causing sudden fever, weakness, cough, diarrhoea, and body ache. Most resolve with rest, hydration, and symptomatic care. Its symptoms include persistent fever, breathlessness, seizures, and dehydration.
What are Acute Viral Illnesses Acute viral illnesses refer to infections that may affect the respiratory or the gastrointestinal systems. They may present with common symptoms like a rapid onset of fever, and generalised weakness. Such illnesses usually resolve by themselves, but may need symptomatic treatment (Images: Canva)
2/10
Common causes of Acute Viral Illnesses Common agents that result in a viral infection include the influenza virus, rhinovirus and measles virus. Others like rotavirus and dengue virus may also cause similar symptoms. The mode of transmission of these organisms may either be via respiratory droplets or through the feco-oral route.
3/10
How the virus acts When viruses enter the body, they begin replicating inside the human cells, which in turn triggers the immune response. This response leads to the development of symptoms like fever and weakness. The symptoms may be worse in the extremes of age, and in immunocompromised individuals.
4/10
Typical clinical presentation Common clinical features of acute viral illness include fever, sore throat and a runny nose. The affected person may also experience cough, and if the virus has infected the gastrointestinal system, there may be diarrhoea, along with nausea and vomiting. Persistent body ache is quite common in such conditions.
When to seek help While most symptoms resolve in a few days, it is crucial to visit the healthcare provider if they don’t. In cases where high grade fever does not subside, or one develops breathlessness and bleeding tendencies, a doctor’s opinion is recommended. Such warning signs must not be ignored.
6/10
Other danger signals Other signs that must alert one include altered sensorium, the development of seizures, and signs of dehydration. Urgent evaluation becomes necessary in such cases. Children are more susceptible, and must be kept away from contaminated food and water to prevent such illnesses.
7/10
Fluid intake and hydration Oral hydration in the form of ORS, or coconut water, can be helpful. Drinking plenty of fluids, like soups, juices (especially those made with citrus-rich fruits) is often recommended. In cases of respiratory infections that cause cough, spicy and oily foods must be avoided.
8/10
Dietary precautions to follow Small frequent meals and bland foods can aid in promoting recovery. Sugary drinks may be avoided and fried items can be kept at bay for a few days until one returns to good health. The symptoms may be relieved by steam inhalation and warm saline gargles.
Home remedies to cure viral illnesses To soothe clinical features caused by respiratory infections, humidified air and honey can prove to be of benefit. Sponging with tepid water can help with the fever, and reduced physical activity and adequate rest promote healing. Medical therapy must be continued as advised by the doctor.
10/10
Simple preventive measures Such viral infections may be prevented by regular handwashing, especially before meals. Close contact with affected individuals must be avoided, and common areas must be disinfected on a regular basis. Proper handling of food and safe drinking habits contribute to good health. (Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis)
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
