[이데일리 이순용 기자] With the flu epidemic started earlier, respiratory syncytial virus (RS virus) and human metapneumovirus infections are on the rise.
Hae-rim Cho, director of Hamsoah Oriental Clinic, said: “Especially infants and children between the ages of 0 and 3 are easy to infect because they were not exposed to respiratory viruses during the latest corona pandemic. which can be fatal to young children with weakened immune systems are circulating at the same time, so it is important not only to prevent infection but also to manage treatment and recovery. “
◇ Oriental medicine treatment for respiratory virus infection, prescription to relieve symptoms
The flu, respiratory syncytial virus, and the recently popular metapneumovirus are all easily spread by droplets, and symptoms such as fever of 38 degrees or higher, cough, sputum, and runny nose appear. During the first 1-2 days, you have a high fever, followed by cough and phlegm. It is a representative virus that causes lower respiratory tract infections in children, and children with weak respiratory tract can easily lead to bronchitis and pneumonia. Otitis media is often accompanied as a complication. Therefore, if your child has a fever and is showing symptoms of a cold at this time, the course can progress rapidly within a day or two, so it is advisable to observe the symptoms closely and see a doctor.
Unlike influenza (flu), which has vaccines and antiviral agents, respiratory syncytial virus (RS virus) and metapneumovirus have no clear treatment, so symptomatic treatment is used to relieve symptoms. In oriental medicine, Eungyosan is prescribed for sore throat and high fever, and herbal medicines such as Mahaenggamseoktang and Chihyosan are prescribed for symptoms of severe cough and phlegm. In addition to this, it is possible to relieve symptoms of discomfort more quickly by prescribing an external preparation that calms the inflammation of the respiratory mucosa and helps recovery. Acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion are also performed on the acupuncture points to relieve respiratory symptoms.
◇ Home life management in case of respiratory virus infection in infants and young children
1. Drink warm water frequently to dilute sputum and calm the respiratory system.
If you develop symptoms from a viral infection, you should refrain from going out and resting at home so you can heal quickly. Water can be said to be a natural antitussive expectorant, so drink warm water frequently to dilute phlegm and calm your respiratory system.
2. Eat foods that are easy to swallow and digest, such as steamed eggs and soft tofu.
It can be accompanied by a sore throat, uncomfortable eating, coughing or vomiting due to phlegm. Eat soft, easy-to-digest foods like steamed eggs and soft tofu and keep them on an empty stomach for 2 hours before going to bed. If your child has a sore throat and has difficulty eating and swallowing, holding an ice cube in their mouth for a while can also help.
3. If nasal congestion is severe, massage around the nose with a hot steam towel
Cold, dry air stimulates the bronchi, so avoid blowing cold air and keep indoor humidity at 50-60%. If you have severe nasal congestion, place a warm towel over your nose and massage the area around your nose to help.
4. To prevent infection, internal and external masks are needed and body temperature is preserved with carpenter’s towel and socks
After suffering from a severe viral illness, the immune system is weakened and it is possible to become infected with a cold or another virus. Be sure to wear a mask in places where many people congregate, both indoors and out, and carefully manage personal hygiene by washing your hands and brushing your teeth after going out. Maintain body temperature by wearing a dry carpenter’s towel and wearing socks, etc.
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