Dorothy FarrarSuperinfection
As a rule, a simple cold simply has to be sat out. It is quite different with a so-called “superinfection“, also referred to as “hyperinfection” or bacterial secondary infection. In such a case, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately and, if necessary, take antibiotics. This article explains how a superinfection is detected or treated and how it is possible to protect oneself from it.
What is a superinfection?
If an infectious disease is followed by a second infectious disease, then it is a superinfection. In medicine, however, the technical term secondary infection is preferred because the first disease does not necessarily have to be caused by an infectious agent. It is also possible to get a hyperinfection by another cause of disease such as neurodermatitis or diabetes. Since bacteria then come into play, it is a bacterial secondary infection.
Virologists, on the other hand, speak of a superinfection if the second disease was triggered by a similar pathogen. For example, hepatitis B is followed by hepatitis D. The term can also be used when the first disease is caused by viruses and the second by bacteria, as is the case, for example, with protracted bronchitis.
Causes
As a rule, a secondary bacterial infection is caused by another infection. A cold is always caused by viruses and the bacteria exploit the weakness of the human immune system and infect the diseased tissue once again.Typical hyperinfections in a flu-like infection would be a sinus infection or a middle ear infection. In this case, the pathogens pass from the auricular tube (Eustachian tube) into the middle ear or from the nose into the sinuses.
In addition, possible secondary infections include tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia or pleurisy. Due to the flu or cold viruses, the human immune system is heavily burdened. Since the immune system deals with the defense of the viruses, bacteria have it even easier to penetrate.
Forms of superinfection
In general, a superinfection can arise either from an infectious disease with viruses or from a chronic disease such as diabetes or neurodermatitis. In the first case, the following secondary diseases can occur:
Although protracted colds are not uncommon, pneumonia, brain or heart muscle inflammation can be fatal in individual cases.
Even with chronic circulatory disorders in a diabetes patient, the tendency to superinfection is increased. Just like neurodermatitis that leads to a weakened and thinned skin.
Symptoms and course
Typical symptoms of superinfection:
In the case of a flu-like hyperinfection, the symptoms are similar to those of a simple cold. These include sore throat, cough, sneezing and runny nose. This can lead to a feeling of pressure in the paranasal sinuses or the bronchi and headaches. A green-yellowish secretion of the affected mucous membranes is very typical for a bacterial secondary infection. Patients often also suffer from fever and, in the case of a middle ear infection, from earache or tinnitus. Coughing up is also more difficult for those affected and the feelings of illness increase.
Rarely do other secondary infections occur, which can also end far more dramatically. For example, if you have diabetes, which means there is an increased risk of a diabetic foot that has developed due to poorly healing wounds, an operation or amputation may even be necessary in the worst case.
Diagnosis
If there are signs of illness such as purulent tonsillitis or a purulent cold, consulting a doctor is essential. This then deals with the history of the disease and performs a physical examination. In addition, the tonsils are checked to get indications of tonsillitis. At the same time, are also useful, in which existing inflammations are searched. If pneumonia is suspected, an X-ray must be taken. In rare cases, computed tomography or a lung endoscopy is also required.
Complications
In principle, superinfection is already a complication of influenza or a common cold. However, the course of a secondary infection is significantly more difficult than that of a conventional infectious disease. In the worst cases, pneumonia can also lead to the formation of lung abscesses.
In rare cases, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) caused by viruses can also occur. This is noticeable, among other things, by shortness of breath , cardiac arrhythmias and fatigue. Other conceivable complications of a superinfection are circulatory collapse, pulmonary edema in which water accumulates in the lungs, or heart failure . Rarely, meningitis can also occur. In general, almost all organs can be damaged.
treatment and therapy
A secondary infection must always be treated consistently. The most important therapeutic measures include plenty of rest, warmth, sufficient fluids and a light diet rich in vitamins. In order to kill the bacteria that caused the hyperinfection, the doctor prescribes an antibiotic . This kills the bacteria and supports the immune system in the double burden.
Herbal remedies such as sloe, Elderberry – or sage tea and Soap word can also be helpful . All of these preparations contain active ingredients that inhibit inflammation and are diaphoretic or expectorant. The additional application of embrocations or inhalations with eucalyptus , peppermint or thyme can also be useful . This moistens the mucous membranes and makes it easier to cough up.
If the superinfection was caused by a skin injury or neurodermatitis, it is important to ensure consistent wound treatment. If fungi or bacteria are found in a swab of a neurodermitic change in the skin, they are treated accordingly. The main focus is on baths that care for the skin, a daily change of bandages and an individual ointment treatment.
Therapy for HIV or hepatitis always depends on the severity. For example, hepatitis B can heal within 6 months without antiviral drugs, but these become chronic in about 10%. In this case, antiviral treatment is essential to prevent liver cirrhosis .
Outlook and prognosis
The presence of a secondary infection can prolong the duration of the disease considerably. If, for example, tonsillitis is added to a flu-like infection, this can last 1 to 2 weeks.If pneumonia subsequently develops, it can take several weeks to heal. The duration of the superinfection varies depending on the secondary disease.
It is important if it is a secondary infection where antibiotics have to be taken, this should also be strictly adhered to. In the worst case, it could otherwise be fatal, such as bacterial pneumonia. If it is still only a matter of viral infections, antibiotic therapy would be exactly the wrong thing to do.
Unjustified use of antibiotics can lead to the development of resistance, which means that the body develops immunity against the active substance. As a result, the body no longer reacts to this treatment if necessary. It is always important to do a blood test to determine which infection is involved.
Prevention
In order to avoid a superinfection in the case of a flu-like infection, you should drink and sleep a lot when you are ill. This gives patients more energy and makes it easier for the body to fight the disease. A diet rich in vitamins is also recommended. On the other hand, the consumption of alcohol, tobacco and sweets should be avoided during the illness. It can also be advisable to take products that support and strengthen the immune system.
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.