Viremia describes the presence of viruses in the bloodstream. Viremia occurs whenever a viral infection has occurred. This is in contrast to viral load, which is the concentration of virus in the blood.
What is viremia?
In viremia, the patient’s host cells are destroyed. This is where viral replication occurs. At the same time, fever and chills often occur, which are to be regarded as a reaction of the immune system. The leucine concentration in the blood rises sharply. The lymphatic system is also usually attacked by viruses. This then triggers the so-called primary viremia. Some types of virus also spread throughout the entire human organism, while others remain in the original cells and are further spread from there. An example of this is infection with HI viruses, which spread in the CD4 T cells of their host. Here, a strong multiplication then occurs. This then leads to what is known as secondary viremia. Once this process is complete, the viruses remain in the tissues, where organic disease symptoms ultimately occur.
Causes
Viral transmission usually takes the form of contact and droplet infections. They can also be transmitted by all body fluids. Smear infections occur when contact is made with infectious excreta. Food can also cause smear infection. These are typical routes of infection for diseases such as hepatitis or polio. If droplet infection takes place, the viruses are transmitted via the respiratory air when infected persons cough or sneeze. Diseases such as varicella, measles, mumps and rubella can be transmitted. Contact with infected body fluids transmits forms of hepatitis or HIV, for example. There is also a certain risk here during birth, when the newborn comes into contact with the mother’s mucous membranes. Insect bites can also be dangerous. Through a tick bite, for example, diseases such as TBE can occur.
Symptoms, complaints and signs
In viremia, the viral load in the blood is diagnosed by a blood test. Since there are countless types of viruses, the courses of disease in humans are also very different. The diseases can be harmless or have very threatening effects on human health. Most viral diseases progress quickly and without complications for the patients. However, dangerous side effects such as pneumonia can sometimes occur. This is not uncommon in the case of infection with varicella. If pregnant women become infected with this type of virus, severe damage can occur in the unborn child. Infection with HI viruses always causes the death of the patient in the final stage, as it triggers the so-called opportunistic infections described by AIDS. The situation is different with influenza-like illnesses. The viruses are comparatively harmless, and those affected do not have to struggle with the unpleasant side effects for long. Treatment is by sparing, since there are no drugs that can fight viruses. In therapy, therefore, only symptomatic action is taken.
Diagnosis and course of the disease
In viremia, only the symptoms of the patients can be treated. This is because, unlike a bacterial infection, there are no drugs available to treat viruses of any kind. While most symptoms are unpleasant, they cannot cause any harm to health. The situation is somewhat more complicated in the case of HIV infection, which is usually treated by specialists. In the meantime, there are many antiviral drugs. These cannot kill the viruses, but they suppress their multiplication in the organism. Thus, the course of the disease can be delayed. However, a cure is not possible. It is necessary to take the appropriate medication daily for the rest of one’s life. In addition, regular blood checks must be carried out. Since the risk of infection is very high, extreme caution is required here. Transmission here occurs through contact with the body fluids of the infected person. In the case of flu-like infections, plenty of fluids should be drunk. There are also many other home remedies that can provide relief. In addition, painkillers and cold sprays can be used. The latter lead to the swelling of the nasal mucosa, so that breathing through the nose is easier.
Complications
In most cases, viremia can be treated relatively easily, resulting in no further complications or symptoms for the affected individual. However, if viremia is not treated, the viruses spread through the bloodstream and can lead to various diseases. This often results in pneumonia or severe influenza, which in the worst case can also lead to the death of the patient. For this reason, viremia should always be treated, especially if inflammation or infection has already occurred. Since viremia cannot be treated with the help of medication, those affected must take care of their bodies. Complications do not occur. In the case of severe viremia, those affected must rely on taking medication and special precautions. A complete cure is often not achieved. With the help of various medications, the individual symptoms of the infection or flu can also be alleviated. Complications do not occur in this case either. If viremia can be treated, it does not lead to a decreased life expectancy of the patient.
When should you see a doctor?
Viremia is a viral disease. Since this disease is associated with a risk of infection, a visit to the doctor should always be made. In particular, people with a weakened immune system need help and support in coping with the health impairment. A feeling of illness, a general malaise or a decrease in physical and mental performance are signs of a disease. Consultation with a physician should be made to clarify the cause and establish a treatment plan. An inner weakness, loss of zest for life as well as lassitude and faintness should be discussed with a physician. If flu-like symptoms occur, such as headache, aching limbs or dysfunction of the organism, it is necessary to perform various medical tests. An increase in the existing complaints or a persistent feeling of lack of efficiency are signs of an illness. Sleep disturbances and a withdrawal from social as well as social life must also be clarified. If daily activities can no longer be performed as usual, the observations should be discussed with a physician. If left untreated, some viral diseases can lead to the premature death of the affected person. A visit to the doctor is therefore always advisable if the symptoms persist for several days or if a gradual development becomes apparent. Impaired breathing, fever and sweating should also be treated.
Treatment and therapy
Viremia can be treated in a variety of ways. Protective vaccinations are often used to prevent disease. Some standard vaccinations are available, for example, against measles, mumps, and rubella. Variocella or polio can also be prevented in this way. Vaccination against hepatitis B is also possible. If viremia is transmitted by droplet infection, it is imperative to avoid any contact with infected persons. Precautions must also be taken to prevent infection through bodily fluids such as blood or semen. For example, condoms should always be used or contact avoided. Furthermore, attention should be paid to thorough hygiene.
Prevention
When treating open wounds, it is essential to wear gloves. Flu infections, on the other hand, are difficult to avoid. Contact through droplet infection is actually present everywhere and cannot be prevented. However, there are other ways to prevent viremia. In particular, it is very important to strengthen the immune system optimally so that it can fight invading viruses. Thus, a healthy and balanced diet is of great advantage. Sufficient sleep should also be taken in order not to weaken the body unnecessarily. Physical activities such as sports and sufficient exercise also have a positive effect on the immune system.
Aftercare
Traditional aftercare falls under the responsibility of physicians and is usually associated with tumor diseases. Doctors conduct scheduled examinations in an attempt to detect a recurrence of cancer at an early stage and derive a treatment benefit. In contrast, viremia requires a focus of infection.After a previous illness has subsided, a new outbreak from an old condition is not possible. Patients must take appropriate measures themselves to prevent infection. Doctors inform at-risk patients about suitable behavioral tips if necessary. For example, patients themselves are responsible for a balanced diet and adequate hygiene. Regular physical activity also helps to strengthen the immune system. In particular, contact with other sick people should be avoided. The treatment of viremia can be protracted, depending on its severity. In that case, the patient must receive help in everyday life. Rest is indicated as part of the aftercare. Medications support the progress of recovery. Scheduled follow-up examinations are aimed at preventing complications in addition to documenting requirements. Symptom-related examinations and blood analyses take place regularly. Doctors recommend protective vaccinations – also to prevent viremia. Those who have their protection continuously renewed thus contribute to better defenses.
Here’s what you can do yourself
Viremia is a natural phenomenon during a viral infection. It is noticeable through a number of symptoms, such as fever and chills, which can be alleviated through various home remedies and self-help measures. If you have a fever, it is advisable to get plenty of rest. The body is sometimes very weakened and must not be further strained by physical activity. In addition, the diet must be changed. Generally, a light diet is recommended, such as rusks and unsweetened tea. Those affected should also cover up well to prevent the body from cooling down. Cooling compresses may be used in consultation with the doctor. For every degree of temperature increase, the body needs an additional liter of fluid to prevent dehydration. From naturopathy, for example, the willow bark, which contains the natural painkiller salicylate, is a good choice. Elderberry and lime blossoms are also used to stimulate sweat production. Accompanying this, the body temperature should be measured regularly. In case of high fever, the doctor must be consulted. However, viremia usually subsides on its own once the body has completely killed the viruses.
