Get express prescriptions in minutes
icon-3
Refill Prescription
icon-4
UTI
icon-5
Birth Control
icon-6
STD
icon-6
ED
icon-1
Hair Loss
icon-2
Acne
icon-1
Allergies
icon-2
Asthma
icon-2
Malaria
icon-2
IBS
icon-2
Hemorrhoids
icon-2
Urinary Incontinence
icon-2
Conjunctivitis
Trustpilot
bookconsultancy

Easy Online Appointments

Book your appointment with a healthcare professional in just a few clicks! No need to leave home—get personalised advice and care from experts who understand your needs. Convenient, fast, and easy access to the treatment you deserve.

medical

Tailored Treatment Plans

Get treatment that fits your life! Whether it's for a viral infection or respiratory issue, our healthcare professionals provide customised plans to help you recover quickly. Start feeling better with practical solutions designed for your specific symptoms and lifestyle.

bookdoctor

Reliable Health Support

You don't have to face illness alone. Our friendly, professional support is just a click away. Whether you need advice, medication recommendations, or emotional support, we're here to help you through every step of your recovery journey.

Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What Are Respiratory Tract Infections?

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) affect body parts involved in breathing, such as the nose, throat, airways, and lungs. Viruses or bacteria usually cause them, and common symptoms include a sore throat, cough, runny nose, and fever. Most RTIs, like the common cold or mild sore throats, get better independently without medical treatment. However, some RTIs, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can become more severe and may require healthcare attention.

Respiratory Tract Infection Types

There Are Two Main Types Of RTIs:

 

  • Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs) affect the nose, sinuses, and throat. Examples include colds, sinus infections, and sore throats. URTIs are commonly caused by viruses and usually go away within a few days to a week.

  • Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) affect the airways and lungs. More serious infections, like bronchitis and pneumonia, fall into this category. Depending on the cause, viruses or bacteria can cause these infections, which may require antibiotics or antiviral treatment.

 

While most RTIs resolve independently, you can take steps to feel better, such as resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and using over-the-counter medicines. If you experience difficulty breathing, a high fever, or your symptoms worsen, you must consult a doctor for further advice and treatment.

Respiratory Tract Infection Symptoms

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) can affect different parts of your breathing system, and the symptoms can vary depending on the infection is seriousness. Here’s a breakdown of common symptoms:

For milder RTIs, such as a cold or viral infection, you may experience:

The symptoms can be much worse for more serious RTIs, like pneumonia or bronchitis. You may have:

  • A severe cough that brings up mucus (phlegm)

  • A high fever

  • Trouble breathing or feeling short of breath

  • A blue tint to the skin, especially around your lips or fingers (this means you’re not getting enough oxygen)

  • Rapid breathing

  • Chest pain or tightness

  • Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)

If you experience any of these more severe symptoms, like difficulty breathing or chest pain, it’s essential to get medical help right away. Getting treatment early can help prevent the infection from getting worse.

Respiratory Tract Infection Causes

The causes of respiratory tract infections are given below:

  • Viruses: Many RTIs are caused by viruses, like the flu and COVID-19, which can affect the upper or lower respiratory tract. Viruses spread quickly when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches surfaces that others may come in contact with.

  • Bacteria: Bacterial infections can also cause lower RTIs, like pneumonia. Bacteria like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus are common culprits.

  • Fungi: Fungal infections are less common but can occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Risk Factors: Certain factors make people more likely to develop a lower RTI, such as having a recent cold, a weakened immune system, or being very young or elderly. Environmental irritants like tobacco smoke, chemicals, or air pollution can also contribute to infections.

Respiratory Tract Infection Treatment

The treatment for respiratory tract infections (RTIs) depends on the cause. Viruses, bacteria, or other germs can cause them. Most mild infections, like a cold, will improve independently, but more serious ones might need extra treatment.

For Mild RTIs:

  • Rest: Get enough sleep to help your body fight the infection.

  • Medications: Over-the-counter medicine can help with symptoms like a cough or fever.

  • Fluids: Drinking plenty of water, tea, or soup helps keep you hydrated and soothes your throat.

For More Serious RTIs: If bacteria, like pneumonia, cause the infection, a doctor may give you antibiotics. It’s imperative to take the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is completely gone.

For viral infections like the flu or common cold, antibiotics won’t work. Instead, doctors might give you antiviral medicines to help you recover faster.

Other Treatments: For some infections, breathing treatments such as inhalers or a nebuliser may help you breathe easier. If the disease is severe, some people may need to stay in the hospital for extra help, like breathing support or fluids.

If you’re feeling very sick or have trouble breathing, seeing a doctor is important.

Respiratory Tract Infection Prevention

Preventing respiratory tract infections (RTIs) is essential to stay healthy and stop germs from spreading. Here are some simple steps you can take:

To Avoid Spreading RTIs To Others:

  • Cover Your Mouth And Nose when you cough or sneeze to stop germs from spreading.

  • Wash Your Hands Regularly, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching your face.

  • Throw Away Used Tissues straight away to avoid contaminating surfaces.

  • Stay Home if you’re sick to avoid infecting others.

To Avoid Getting An RTI:

  • Get Vaccinated: Ask your doctor about getting the flu vaccine every year and the pneumococcal vaccine to prevent pneumonia.

  • Wash Your Hands often, especially before eating or touching your face.

  • Avoid Touching Your Face with dirty hands, as this can spread germs to your nose, mouth, or eyes.

  • Clean Surfaces regularly, such as phones, doorknobs, and countertops, where germs can live.

  • Don’t Smoke or be around second-hand smoke, as it can damage your lungs and make it easier for infections to take hold.

  • Keep A Distance from people who are sick, especially if they have symptoms like a cough or fever.

  • Stay Healthy by eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising. A robust immune system helps fight off infections.

Following these steps can lower your chances of catching an RTI and help protect those around you. Mobi Doctor can help you manage and prevent respiratory tract infections with expert advice and treatment options. Whether you need guidance on symptoms, prevention, or medication, our healthcare professionals are just a click away, ready to support your health.

Swipe up to see a Dr.

close