Chronic Infections
Our chronic infections specialists in New York are here for you. Our team of internists near you are dedicated to supporting your success and ensuring that you regain your health and overall wellness.
What Are Chronic Infections?
Chronic infections are infections that persist in the body for a long time, and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. They can last for years and may not cause symptoms, but they can still spread to others. Examples include chronic sinusitis, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and latent tuberculosis. Effective treatment reduces symptoms and prevents recurrence.
What Are the Causes of Chronic Infections?
Chronic infections develop when the immune system cannot fully eliminate invading microorganisms, allowing them to persist in the body. These infections may be caused by pathogens with slow growth rates, which evade immune detection or elimination. Some bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites establish chronic infections by forming biofilms, hiding in immune-privileged sites, or undergoing mutations that enhance resistance.
Factors contributing to chronic infections include weakened immunity, incomplete or inappropriate treatments, and the presence of resistant strains. Pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tuberculosis), Hepatitis B or C viruses, and Helicobacter pylori are known culprits. Chronic inflammation and tissue damage often accompany such infections, further compromising the immune response. Understanding these causes is essential for effective management and treatment.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Chronic Infections?
Treatments for chronic infections depend on the underlying condition and pathogen. For chronic sinusitis, therapies include antibiotics, nasal irrigation with saline solutions, and corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation and promote drainage. In cases of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), preventive measures such as increased hydration, proper hygiene, and cranberry supplements may help, alongside antibiotic prophylaxis for persistent cases.
Latent tuberculosis (TB) is managed with TB-specific medications, like isoniazid or rifampin, to prevent progression to active disease. Chronic viral infections, such as hepatitis or HIV, often require antiviral drugs to suppress viral replication and manage symptoms.
Additional therapies may involve lifestyle changes, immune-boosting supplements, or surgical interventions when necessary. Proper adherence to treatment regimens and addressing contributing factors, like underlying conditions or weakened immunity, are critical for effective management and prevention of complications.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Chronic infections?
Well by Messer can order sinus imaging (CT scans) for persistent sinusitis, send for nasal endoscopy, and perform urinalysis and urine cultures. In addition, we do Tuberculin skin testing (TST) or interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) for tuberculosis. We treat with antibiotics, nasal irrigation, or corticosteroid sprays for sinusitis; preventive measures and antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent UTIs; and TB medications for latent tuberculosis.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, internists, gynecologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success and regaining your overall health at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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