Respiratory tract infections

Respiratory Tract Infections

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are any infectious diseases involving the respiratory tract. Pronounced as /rɛspɪrətɔːri trækt ɪnfɛkʃənz/, the term is derived from the Latin respirare meaning "to breathe" and the Greek traktus meaning "a dragging".

Types of RTIs

RTIs can be divided into upper and lower respiratory tract infections.

• Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) - These include the common cold, laryngitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute rhinitis, acute rhinosinusitis, and acute otitis media.
• Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) - These include acute bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchiolitis, tuberculosis, and others.

Causes

RTIs can be caused by many different viruses and bacteria, including rhinovirus, influenza virus, and streptococcus. The exact cause often cannot be determined.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, and fatigue.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention includes hand washing, wearing masks, and vaccination. Treatment depends on the cause, but may include antibiotics, antiviral medication, and symptomatic treatment.

See Also

• Common cold
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• Bronchitis
• Tuberculosis

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