Overview

A vitamin is an organic compound required as a nutrient in tiny amounts by an organism. A compound is called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from the diet. Thus, the term is conditional both on the circumstances and the particular organism. For example, ascorbic acid functions as vitamin C for some animals but not others, and vitamins D and K are required in the human diet only in certain circumstances.

Vitamins are classified by their biological and chemical activity, not their structure. Thus, each "vitamin" actually refers to a number of vitamer compounds, which form a set of distinct chemical compounds that show the biological activity of a particular vitamin. Such a set of chemicals are grouped under an alphabetized vitamin "generic descriptor" title, such as "vitamin A," which (for example) includes retinal, retinol, and many carotenoids. Vitamers are often inter-convertible in the body. The term vitamin does not include other essential nutrients such as dietary minerals, essential fatty acids, or essential amino acids, nor does it encompass the large number of other nutrients that promote health but are otherwise required less often.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

The Bad Upper Respiratory Infections

Nearly everyone at some point in their life contracts an infection of the upper respiratory tract. In medicine, are known as URI's. You start at the beginning of the respiratory system, on the back of the nose. And it is through the nose, that most air pollutants and toxins in our bodies. Although a URI at any time of year can occur, they are more frequent in autumn and winter in temperate climates. Never a medical crisis, as it runs its course and disappear without medical intervention. But they are expensive, they lost to society than forty percent of absenteeism in the workforce and millions of school are responsible.

Most URIs are caused by viruses. Some are the result of bacteria and other can be a combination of both. It is possible to build people to a natural immunity to viruses through contact with them. Thus, if a URI is caused by a virus that has spyware on your system before you will no doubt have a milder case and recover faster. But if you are exposed himself to a new virus, URI You can take longer. The strength of the immune system is another factor that determines the severity of your illness and also to check whether you are infected from the beginning.

URI in the past have often been mistaken for bacterial infections and treated with antibiotics. This was a serious mistake on the part of the medical profession for two reasons. First, no viral infections rather than antibiotics. Second, these bacteria contributed to the development of a risk of antibiotic resistance to their effectiveness in situations where they are really needed.

There is currently no cure for a URI. The best treatment is rest and hydration. Extra rest will strengthen your immune system may effectively control the virus. Keep the intake of fluids thins the mucous in the lungs and sinuses hydrated relief of the symptoms of congestion. You can over-the-counter medications, but it will not cure the infection. They are easier to bear only the symptoms. Since it is normal that a low fever, Tylenol or acetaminophen have, it will reduce and alleviate the general cases of indisposition. Since a URI congestion in the sinuses and lungs, throat and ear pain, or all can do these, you will need something to each symptom that you relieve. There are several other drugs to relieve cough, sore throat and congestion.

However, when the fever higher than 102 degrees, it is not gone, or is gone, but then returns with new symptoms, you need to see a doctor. A URI should run its course of seven to fourteen days, but if it takes longer, you also need to consult your doctor. Occasionally, a viral infection a secondary bacterial infection. In this case, you must be treated with antibiotics and you must see your doctor. URIs are very contagious and difficult to prevent. Avoid others who are sick, and frequent hand washing can help, such as strengthening the immune system through diet, exercise and proper rest can.

 

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