Infections - symptoms and treatment

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 infection.

What is an infection?

An infection occurs when an infectious agent such as bacteria, virus or fungus 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 such as colds and flu to more serious illnesses such as HIV and Ebola.

Viruses can be spread in different ways, for example airborne via 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 by themselves, and once the infection has healed, most viruses are no longer in the body. When the immune system has knocked out the virus, a protection against it is created - so-called immunity.

Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics. Instead, treatment often focuses on alleviating symptoms and supporting the body's immune system, although there are antiviral drugs for some 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 programme.

Examples of infections caused by viruses:

• Influenza
• 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 reproduce on their own by dividing. Just like viruses, bacteria can lead to many different diseases, ranging from strep throat 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
• Lyme disease
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Salmonella

Infections caused by fungi

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

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

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 that causes them.

• Respiratory 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 entering the urethra and bladder.
• Fungal infections: Can affect the skin, mouth, abdomen 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 can use different methods, such as blood tests, urine tests or swabs with a cotton swab. The tests help to identify which infectious agent is behind the infection, which is crucial for you to receive the right treatment.

The treatment is adapted to the specific infection. Bacterial infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Viral infections usually go away on their own, but sometimes you may need antiviral drugs. Depending on which symptoms you have, you may also receive, for example, pain-relieving or fever-reducing medicines to relieve your discomfort.

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 infection and Lyme disease. Complete our health form for medical assessment and treatment within 15 minutes.

Recurrent and repeated infections

Recurring and repeated infections can be a sign of underlying disease or a weakened immune system. It could, for example, be about 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 healthcare center if you feel that you are suffering from recurrent infections.

This is how you can prevent infections

In order to reduce the risk of infections, it is important to try to avoid infection. One of the most effective methods is to maintain good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water, especially when you have been in public places, before meals and after using the toilet. Cough and sneeze into the crook of your arm and keep your distance from others who sneeze or cough. Use condoms 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.