Common Infections

Almost all infections are associated with systemic inflammation which is characterized by fever, not wanting to eat (anorexia), and pain in muscles (myalgia) and joints (arthralgia). Symptoms can be more specific when it comes to a particular body system or organ. For example, if somebody suffers from gastritis due to an infection there will also be symptoms of nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. The respiratory, the gastrointestinal and the genitourinary systems are the ones that are most commonly affected.

Therapeutic Approach

The role of the practitioner in these circumstances can be complementary, except of the case of an acute infection where the patient needs emergent specialist treatment. The individual must be evaluated and diagnosed primarily by a specialist (e.g. urologist for urinary tract infection). If there is no need of hospitalization, he/she can then have complementary treatment. Medical history taking and physical evaluation by performing particular clinical tests (auscultation, neurological etc.) are necessary before the practitioner proceeds with the execution of any supplementary therapeutic methods such as clinical nutrition, vitamins, herbs and acupuncture*.

Notes: In suspicion of metastasis or neoplasm the patient is immediately referred.