What are lower respiratory tract infections?

What are lower respiratory tract infections?

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTI) are infections that affect the airways (below the level of the larynx), including the trachea and the alveolar sacs. LRTI are characterized in many different ways.

What are bacterial respiratory infections?

A bacterial respiratory tract infection is an infection of the sinuses, throat, airway, or lungs. Bacterial infections may develop after having a viral illness like a cold or the flu. Symptoms tend to localize to one particular area.

What is the most common lower respiratory tract infection?

Pneumonia as the Most Common Lower Respiratory Tract Infection.

What are examples of respiratory tract infections?

Typical infections of the upper respiratory tract include tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, otitis media, certain influenza types, and the common cold. Symptoms of URIs can include cough, sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, headache, low-grade fever, facial pressure, and sneezing.

How long does a lower respiratory tract infection last?

According to the American Lung Association, a healthy young adult can recover from a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia, in around 1 week. For older adults, it may take several weeks to make a full recovery.

How do you tell if you have a lower respiratory infection?

Lower respiratory infection symptoms include a severe cough that may produce mucus (phlegm), cause shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing when exhaling.

How do I know if my cough is bacterial?

If you start to feel worse, this is one sign that you may have a bacterial infection. Other features suggesting that you may be developing a bacterial infection are a fever above 38°C and coughing up thick discoloured phlegm. You may develop chest pain, rapid breathing, and/or rapid pulse.

What are the five most common respiratory infections?

The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases

• Asthma.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Chronic Bronchitis.
• Emphysema.
• Lung Cancer.
• Cystic Fibrosis/Bronchiectasis.
• Pneumonia.
• Pleural Effusion.

How do you get rid of a lower respiratory infection?

Treatment Options

1. Lifestyle. Ingest plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest. Using a humidifier to breathe warm, moist air may provide relief.
2. Medications. Since most LRTIs are viral, medications are generally not used in treatment.
3. Other Treatments. In the case of serious LRTIs, treatment in a hospital may be necessary.

What is the difference between upper and lower respiratory tract infection?

Upper vs. While lower respiratory tract infections involve the airways below the larynx, upper respiratory tract infections occur in the structures in the larynx or above. People who have lower respiratory tract infections will experience coughing as the primary symptom.

How is lower respiratory tract infection treated?

Medications

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin can relieve pain and fever.
2. Acetaminophen can also provide relief from pain and fever.
3. Using a bronchodilator inhaler can help wheezing and shortness of breath.