If your cold does not disappear at all This superinfection can be dangerous

Respiratory infections: In a superinfection, the fastest to the doctor

Cold, headache, hoarseness: In autumn, many people catch a cold. Most of the complaints disappear after a few days of bed rest again. But if the symptoms last longer, a superinfection could be the cause. Then it is advisable to see a doctor quickly.

In the cold season, many people are sick

A runny nose, sore throat, fever: It's not uncommon to catch an infection in wet, cold weather. Because the symptoms are similar, some people are not quite sure if they have a "simple" cold (flu infection) or even a flu. Which disease is present, among other things, to recognize how quickly the symptoms, because a real flu occurs suddenly. In addition, the symptoms are usually more intense. Important for both infections is to always cure them properly. Otherwise the risk of a superinfection increases.

If the symptoms of a flu or cold do not go away after a week, but become even stronger, a superinfection could be the cause. Then you should consult a doctor. (Image: Monkey Business / fotolia.com)

Caused by viruses

It has recently been reported that about one in four patients with a cold get antibiotics from the doctor. And although such drugs do not work in a flu infection.

Because a cold, as well as the flu, is caused by viruses. But antibiotics only work against bacteria.

However, it may be that patients who get sick with cold symptoms need an antibiotic. And that's when it comes to a superinfection.

Always cure infections properly

Many people make the mistake of having a cold, to make an effort too early and not cure the infection properly.

Then it can easily come to a superinfection (also called secondary infection) due to the weakened by cold or flu viruses immune system.

There is talk of a superinfection if, in addition to the viruses that triggered the disease, there is also a bacterial infection.

Then you will not only get rid of the symptoms of a flu or cold so quickly, but it sometimes comes to a bacterial bronchitis, a bacterial sinusitis or at worst to a bacterial pneumonia.

How to recognize a bacterial superinfection

But how can one recognize a superinfection? Firstly, that the symptoms of a flu or cold do not abate as usual after about a week, but even worse.

In addition, yellowish or greenish nasal secretions, purulent coughing sputum, nosebleeds, increased headache and persistent fever may be potential warning signs.

In such cases, it is advisable to see a doctor who can use a special blood test, the PCT test, to determine if there is a superinfection.

Then an antibiotic therapy may be useful, but sometimes it is sufficient to relieve the symptoms with medication, home remedies and a lot of rest. (Ad)