Respiratory tract infection
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) can affect the sinuses, throat, airways or lungs. Most RTIs get better without treatment in 1-2 weeks but sometimes you may need to see a GP. Lower RTI’s tend to last longer and be more serious.
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Common Symptoms
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Breathlessness, tight chest or wheezing
- High temperature (fever)
- Feeling generally unwell
Upper respiratory tract infections include:
- Common cold
- Sinusitis
- Tonsillitis
- Laryngitis
Lower respiratory tract infections include:
- Bronchitis
- Bronchiolitis
- Chest infection
- Pneumonia
Flu can be an upper or lower respiratory tract infection
Treatment at home
- Rest
- Drink water to loosen mucus and make it easier to cough up
- Drink hot lemon & honey to soothe a cough (not suitable for under 1 year of age)
- Gargle with warm salty water (children should not try this)
- Raise your head whilst sleeping to make breathing easier and clear your chest of mucus
- Over the counter remedies to ease symptoms such as sore throat, headaches and muscle pain (ask your pharmacist)
When should I book a GP?
- you feel very unwell or your symptoms get worse
- you cough up blood or bloodstained mucus
- you’ve had a cough for longer than 3 weeks
- you’re pregnant
- you’re over 65
- you have a weakened immune system – e.g. you’re having chemotherapy
- you have a long-term health condition, such as a heart, lung or kidney condition
