Infections

Infections are a part of life. They affect people of all ages and can occur in different parts of the body. Infections are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites attacking the body, which responds with a reaction from the immune system. Here we go through everything you need to know about infections: what an infection is, how it occurs and how to treat different types of infections.

What is an infection?

An infection occurs when an infectious agent such as bacteria, viruses or fungi invades the body and begins to multiply, leading to a reaction from the body's immune system. The body almost always defends itself with inflammation. Infections can range from mild to life-threatening and can affect different organs and systems in the body.

Infections caused by viruses

Viral infections occur when viruses invade and multiply inside the body's cells. Viruses are microscopic and can cause a variety of infections, from mild conditions like colds and flu to more serious diseases like HIV and Ebola.

Viruses can be spread in different ways, for example airborne through coughing and sneezing, through direct contact with infected people or through contaminated surfaces or objects that an infected person has been in contact with. Viruses cannot reproduce themselves, and when the infection has cleared up, most viruses are no longer in the body. When the immune system has eliminated the virus, protection against it is created – so-called immunity.

Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics. Instead, treatment often focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the body's immune system, although there are antiviral drugs against certain specific viruses. Vaccinations are an effective way to prevent many viral diseases. The vaccine usually contains a small part of the virus that causes the infection, which means that the immune system begins to build up protection against it without you having to get sick. Several serious infectious diseases such as measles, mumps and rubella have become very rare in Sweden thanks to the national vaccination program.

Examples of infections caused by viruses:

• Flu
• Cold
• COVID-19
• Oral herpes and genital herpes
• Chicken-pox
• TBE
• Hepatitis A, B and C
• HIV/AIDS
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections are caused by harmful bacteria that attack different parts of the body. Unlike viruses, bacteria can live and multiply on their own by dividing. Like viruses, bacteria can cause many different diseases, ranging from sore throats and urinary tract infections to severe pneumonia and meningitis. Bacterial infections can often be treated effectively with antibiotics.

Examples of infections caused by bacteria:

• Tonsillitis
• Scarlet fever
• Urinary tract infection
• Borrelia
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Salmonella

Infections caused by fungi

Yeast infections are another category of infections that can affect people in different ways. They are caused by different types of fungi and can affect the skin, nails, mouth, and genitals, among other things. Yeast infections are often characterized by itching, red rashes, white patches on mucous membranes, and flaky skin.

Yeast infections are usually not serious but can be persistent and difficult to treat. There are both over-the-counter medications and stronger medications that you can get a prescription from a doctor if you have severe symptoms.

Examples of infections caused by fungi:

• Athlete's foot
• Fungus in the abdomen
• Milk eczema
• Nail fungus

Different types of infections

Infections can affect different parts of the body and vary depending on the type of microorganism causing them.

• Respiratory tract infections: Some of our most common infections, such as colds, flu, and pneumonia.
• Skin infections: Can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
• Stomach and intestinal infections: Often caused by viruses or bacteria and lead to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
• Urinary tract infections: Caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and bladder.
• Yeast infections: Can affect the skin, mouth, genitals, or other parts of the body.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STDs): Caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites.

Diagnosis and treatment of infections

Diagnosis and treatment of infections vary depending on what is causing the infection and what symptoms you have. To correctly diagnose an infection, doctors may use various methods, such as blood tests, urine tests, or swabs. The tests help identify the infectious agent behind the infection, which is crucial for you to receive the right treatment.

Treatment is tailored to the specific infection. Bacterial infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Viral infections usually clear up on their own, but sometimes you may need antiviral medications. Depending on your symptoms, you may also be given painkillers or fever-reducing medications to help ease your symptoms.

Get prescriptions for common infections within 15 minutes

For certain infections, you can get help with prescriptions quickly and easily through us at Recetas Medicas. We offer treatment for, among other things, oral and genital herpes , urinary tract infections and Lyme disease . Fill out our health form for a medical assessment and treatment within 15 minutes.

Recurrent and repeated infections

Recurrent and repeated infections can be a sign of an underlying illness or a weakened immune system. For example, this can be recurrent urinary tract infections, throat infections or skin infections. The reasons for these repeated infections can vary – it can be due to inadequate treatment, chronic diseases, genetic factors or lifestyle factors such as stress and poor diet. Contact a health center if you feel that you are suffering from recurrent infections.

How you can prevent infections

To reduce the risk of infection, try to avoid contact with others. One of the most effective methods is to maintain good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after being in public places, before meals and after using the toilet. Cough and sneeze into your elbow and keep your distance from others who are sneezing or coughing. Use a condom to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections.

You can also try to strengthen your immune system to reduce the risk of getting sick. A healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep habits, can strengthen the immune system.