Today, I will talk about influenza and some bacterial infections. The common cold or rhinopharyngitis starts with increased mucus production and some common symptoms, namely fever, cough, sore throat, itchy eyes, red eyes, body aches, etc. What should I do most of the time? Well, at this point, as many doctors have done before, they have probably already given the treatment consisting of rest and fluids. However, doctors who are on call in Puerto Vallarta (or another touristic area) understand the fact that the patients calling us because they feel unwell are, in fact, on vacation, and they need something more than fluids and rest. Some medications in the correct combination would help you feel better sooner.
On the other hand, it is also important to distinguish a bacterial infection from a viral infection. A bacterial infection usually presents with fewer symptoms; for example, it may present with only a sore throat and cough or just cough and body aches—i.e., the signs and symptoms would depend on which bacterial infection is in your system and which anatomic area is affected. Why is it important to differentiate? Because if you have a probable bacterial infection, many times you would need cultures from some secretions before initiating any treatment, as well as require the use of antibiotics (which have no value against viruses), and often, with the correct treatment, you may recover sooner than from a viral infection.
So, it is essential to go to a physician because there are totally different treatments for viral and bacterial infections, and there are many different antibiotics out there. Only a few are required for uncomplicated respiratory infections, while others are needed for complicated ones. So, visit a doctor as soon as possible, and you will feel better soon and continue enjoying the astounding Vallarta. Y que viva Mexico cab…!!
