Respiratory infections are common illnesses that affect the airways, including the sinuses, throat, and lungs. These infections can range from mild conditions, such as the common cold, to more severe illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia. While many respiratory infections resolve on their own, understanding how to manage symptoms and when to seek medical care can support recovery.
At-Home Comfort Measures
Rest is important for recovery from a respiratory infection, allowing the body to conserve energy and fight the infection. Adequate sleep helps the immune system function effectively.
Fluids help keep mucous membranes moist, assisting in clearing mucus and trapped particles from the airways. Dehydration can thicken mucus, making it more difficult to expel. Water, clear broths, and warm teas are suitable choices, but caffeinated beverages and alcohol should be avoided as they can lead to dehydration.
Using a humidifier introduces moisture into the air, which helps thin thick mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from the respiratory tract. Humidifiers can also soothe irritated airways and reduce dryness in the nose and throat. Maintaining indoor humidity between 30% and 50% is generally recommended.
Saline nasal rinses help clear nasal passages by thinning mucus and washing away irritants. Gargling with salt water can provide relief for a sore throat by soothing inflamed tissues and potentially reducing swelling. These measures can help manage common symptoms like congestion and throat discomfort.
Over-the-Counter Symptom Management
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can alleviate many symptoms associated with respiratory infections. Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can reduce aches, discomfort, and lower a fever. These medications affect the body’s pain and temperature regulation.
Decongestants are available in oral forms or as nasal sprays and work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. This helps to open up clogged nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. However, nasal decongestant sprays should not be used for more than a few days to avoid rebound congestion.
Cough medications fall into two main categories: cough suppressants and expectorants. Cough suppressants, like dextromethorphan, inhibit the coughing reflex, useful for dry coughs. Expectorants, such as guaifenesin, thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making productive coughs more effective.
Knowing When to Consult a Doctor
While many respiratory infections resolve with at-home care and over-the-counter medications, certain signs indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath requires immediate attention, as it may indicate a more severe infection.
A persistent high fever, especially one that lasts over three days or exceeds 102°F (38.9°C), can signal a more serious infection. Chest pain or pressure that doesn’t resolve or worsens also requires prompt medical assessment.
Worsening symptoms after initial improvement, or symptoms that do not improve after 7 to 10 days, can indicate a complication. Other concerning symptoms include severe sore throat, ear pain, or signs of dehydration like decreased urination.
For infants and young children, or those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease), symptoms that might seem mild in others can be more serious. These individuals should consult a doctor sooner if symptoms like persistent fever, difficulty feeding, or increased irritability appear.
Professional Medical Treatments
If home care and OTC options are insufficient, a medical professional can diagnose the infection and recommend targeted treatments. Diagnosis may involve a physical examination and tests, such as a nose or throat swab, to identify the cause. Imaging tests, like a chest X-ray, may check for conditions such as pneumonia.
Most respiratory infections are viral, so antibiotics are not effective and are not prescribed. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms while the body fights the virus. However, for certain severe viral infections, such as influenza, antiviral medications may be prescribed, especially if started early.
If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Complete the full course of antibiotics as directed, even if symptoms improve, to fully eradicate the infection and prevent antibiotic resistance. The specific antibiotic depends on the type of bacteria.