Respiratory Tract Infection

Overview

Respiratory tract infections are among the most common illnesses seen in practice. They range from upper respiratory infections (the common cold, sore throat, sinusitis) to lower respiratory infections (acute bronchitis and pneumonia). Most are viral and settle with supportive care, but some — particularly pneumonia — need antibiotics and, sometimes, hospital care. This page gives an overview of respiratory infections; the symptom-and-disease-specific pages and the Fever & Infectious Diseases service cover the detail.

Upper vs lower respiratory infections

• Upper respiratory infections — common cold, sore throat, sinusitis; mostly viral.
• Lower respiratory infections — acute bronchitis and pneumonia; may be viral or bacterial.
• Flare-ups of asthma or COPD are often triggered by respiratory infections.

Common causes

• Rhinoviruses and other common-cold viruses.
• Influenza (flu) and COVID-19.
• Bacterial causes such as pneumococcus in pneumonia.
• Atypical bacteria and, less commonly, tuberculosis.

Evaluation

Evaluation reviews the duration, fever, cough, phlegm and breathlessness. A chest examination is performed, and a chest X-ray, blood tests, COVID-19 or flu testing, and sputum examination are ordered when a lower respiratory infection or pneumonia is suspected.

Management

Upper respiratory infections are managed supportively. Acute bronchitis is mostly supportive. Pneumonia and bacterial lower respiratory infections are treated with targeted antibiotics, and severe cases need hospital care. Flare-ups of asthma or COPD are treated promptly. Unnecessary antibiotics for viral infections are avoided.

Warning signs — seek urgent care

• Breathlessness, chest pain or bluish lips.
• High fever with confusion or drowsiness.
• Coughing up blood.
• Symptoms worsening despite care, especially in older adults or those with long-term conditions.

How we help

Dr. Nayak identifies the level and cause of a respiratory infection, uses antibiotics appropriately, and directs severe cases to hospital. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Acute Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Recurrent Respiratory Infections
• Cough
• Fever & Infectious Diseases
• Fever with Cough
• Fever with Sore Throat