Infections caused by viruses are called viral infections. Viruses are tiny pathogens that use a person’s cells to replicate repeatedly. They usually cause digestive and respiratory illnesses, but some variants can also affect other body functions. Common viral illnesses include the flu, cold, and herpes (cold sores). These go away on their own in most cases but can sometimes cause life-threatening or chronic health problems. Here are the types and early symptoms of viral infections. Types of viral infections Viral infections are usually classified depending on the body part they infect, how they spread, and the symptoms they cause. Certain viruses, such as adenovirus and herpes virus, can cause different health problems. The common types of viral infections include the following: Respiratory viral infections Respiratory viral infections start in the lungs, airways, throat, and nose. These infections cause pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Some common types of respiratory viral infections include: Common cold, which is generally caused by rhinovirus Flu caused by influenza Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) Parainfluenza Viral infections in the digestive system Viral infections can affect any part of the digestive system but usually start in the stomach, intestines, gastrointestinal tract, or liver. Some common types of digestive system viral infections include the following:

Cold sores appear in the form of blisters on the lips or the area around the mouth and are often a symptom of the herpes simplex virus. The blisters are filled with fluid and can break open and ooze. These usually crust over and go away in seven to ten days; however, the healing process may be painful. In such cases, the pain and discomfort can be alleviated using certain simple remedies for cold sores. Use aloe vera gel Aloe vera is known to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, it has inhibitory characteristics. This is why applying aloe vera gel can give temporary relief from the pain and discomfort caused by cold sores. A little bit of pure aloe vera gel can be dabbed over the areas where cold sores have formed. This can be done three to four times a day until the cold sores heal. Wear sunscreen One of the main triggers of cold sores is sunburn. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause cold sores to flare up. To avoid this, the application of sunscreen is often recommended. A broad-spectrum sunscreen preferably with minimum SPF 30 should be applied daily. This should be done at least 20 minutes before heading into the sun.

The immune system is a natural defense mechanism of the human body that protects against harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Although it functions well in healthy individuals, it may fail to work at times, making them more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. Additionally, an overactive immune system can result in autoimmune conditions like psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. Therefore, one must look for signs of a weak immune system to ensure necessary treatment. Common signs of a weak immune system High-stress levels According to American Psychological Association, when an individual goes through long periods of stress, it can adversely affect their immune system. This is because, as stress levels in the body increase, it leads to a simultaneous decrease in lymphocytes – white blood cells ( WBC) that aid in the fight against infections. Although this may seem harmless, this decrease in WBCs can cause one to be at an increased risk for virus or bacteria-related issues such as the common cold. Besides this, chronic stress or frequent episodes of stress can worsen autoimmune conditions like ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Persistent colds Most people can be affected by the common cold 2-3 times a year. In such cases, these individuals may bounce back to normalcy in a week or a maximum of 10 days.