Adenovirus is responsible for causing infections in the gastrointestinal tract, in the eyes, bladder, etc. There are more than 40 different types of adenovirus known today, that can cause several health conditions in human beings. More commonly, it affects the lining of the respiratory tract and leads to symptoms like cold, sore throat, etc.
Adenovirus Infection
Adenovirus is contagious, i.e., can be easily spread from one person to the other through the medium of bodily fluids while sneezing and cough. Following conditions are caused due to it.
- Keratoconjunctivitis
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Bronchiolitis
- Viral Pneumonia
- Croup
- Gastroenteritis
- Urinary tract infections
- Dry cough
- Swelling of tonsils
Symptoms
Respiratory Tract Infection
Swelling of tonsils, sore throat, viral pneumonia, bronchiolitis, etc., are the conditions caused due to adenovirus infection in the respiratory tract. People often mistake respiratory infections caused by adenovirus with influenza (flu) due to the similarity in symptoms.
- Frequent colds
- Pharyngitis (sore throat)
- Dry hacking cough
- Congested and runny nose
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Inflammation of pharynx
- Fever
Gastrointestinal Tract Infection
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a condition caused due to it. Adenovirus affects the small and the large intestines. It is commonly found in children and young adults.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Fainting
- Weakness
Eye Infection
As seen above, several types of eye infections are found in people due to the adenovirus. The signs and symptoms include:
- Red eyes
- Watering of eyes
- Irritation in eyes
- Fever
- Swelling in lymph nodes
- Discomfort
- Runny nose
Symptoms like difficulty in breathing, skin rashes, swelling, etc., are observed in children. The symptoms are more severe and pronounced in case of children as they have a weak immune system as compared to adults.
Adenovirus is also one of the factors causing Urinary Tract Infections (UTI). Its symptoms include frequent urination, excessive urination, pain and burning sensation during urination, blood in urine, etc. On the other hand, it can also lead to middle ear infection, causing fainting and dizziness. Secondly, other rare symptoms include sepsis, meningitis, hemorrhagic cystitis, etc.
You should consult the doctor if any of the aforementioned symptoms are observed. The symptoms of eye infection, gastrointestinal tract infection, and urinary tract infections are more pronounced and can be easily identified. Whereas, respiratory tract infections are often mistaken and ignored.
Various treatment methods are available for treating the aforementioned conditions. It is essential to consult the doctor immediately for quick relief. Take care!
Disclaimer: This article is meant only to provide information. It is not to be used as a substitute for doctor's advice.