Ankara University (AÜ) Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Lecturer Prof. Dr. İsmail Balık stated that in this period of summer, there is an increase in upper respiratory tract diseases due to the fluctuating climate. Stating that there are people around who cough, sneeze and have runny nose complaints, Balık said that there are two reasons for this.
Balık said, “These problems occur due to both viral-related respiratory tract infections and the development of allergic reactions in sensitive people by carrying pollen from trees into the air with the arrival of spring months.” gave the information.
Underlining that there was no significant increase in viral infections in May, Balık continued his words as follows:
“In our country, viral infections are at the seasonal normal level during May, but viral infections such as influenza, RSV, and flu, popularly known as flu, especially Covid, continue to be seen. These days, these are not at an epidemic level, but at seasonal normal levels. Now Covid is like the flu.” “It has become a seasonal disease and causes mild symptoms in those who are not in the risk group and have been vaccinated or have previously had Covid, as they have developed immunity.”
“COUGH DUE TO VIRAL INFECTION MAY LAST FOR A FEW DAYS”
Pointing out that there has been an increase in patients with complaints of prolonged cough recently, Balık said, “Prolonged cough may occur due to the following viral infections. Cough due to viral infection can last for a few days and usually goes away on its own. Following these infections, complications such as pneumonia or sinusitis develop.” “If the cough lasts longer than three weeks, a doctor should be consulted.” he said.
Pointing out that a long-lasting cough may be a symptom of lung diseases other than infection, Balık emphasized that this may be an indicator of a serious disease. “A cough that persists for more than three weeks may be due to the development of sinusitis and pneumonia, but it may also be a symptom of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and asthma,” Balık said. he warned.
“INFLUENZA AND COVID MAY BE SEVERE FOR THOSE IN THE RISK GROUP”
Prof. Dr. İsmail Balık pointed out that those who smoke for many years and those who are exposed to cigarette smoke should definitely consult a physician in case of a long-lasting cough.
Explaining that it is important for these people to undergo the necessary examinations for lung diseases, Balık said:
“Apart from this, if there is only a dry cough in case of viral infection, it is absolutely unnecessary to use antibiotics or cough syrup. In order to use antibiotics, the cough must be productive of phlegm and last for a long time. Side effects may occur in case of unnecessary use, so antibiotics and cough medicines should never be used without the knowledge of a physician. Cough “Drinking plenty of water, consuming herbal teas and humidifying the environment will be beneficial. In case of expectoration, high fever accompanied by cough, shortness of breath and side pain, antibiotics prescribed by the physician should be used regularly and on time.”
Balık warned that this disease may still be severe in those in the risk group who have never been vaccinated before and have not had Covid-19, and said, “It is important for these people to be vaccinated.” said.
Balık stated that influenza can also be severe for people in the risk group and said, “Covid and influenza can be severe and even fatal for those over the age of 65, those with underlying diseases, and those in the risk group. People in this group need to be cautious and protected.” he said. (AA)
