What is the LRTI?

Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is a broad terminology which includes acute bronchitis, pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/chronic bronchitis (AECB), and acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis.

What are the symptoms of LRTI?

Symptoms of a more serious LRTI include:

  • Fever.
  • Severe cough.
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing.
  • Wheezing.
  • Skin turning a blue color due to lack of oxygen.
  • Chest pain or tightness.

What are examples of lower respiratory infections?

Lower respiratory tract infections are any infections in the lungs or below the voice box. These include pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis. A lower respiratory tract infection can affect the airways, such as with bronchitis, or the air sacs at the end of the airways, as in the case of pneumonia.

What is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infection?

The number one cause of lower respiratory tract infections are viruses that invade the respiratory tract. Bacteria are the next most common cause. In bronchitis, the most common viruses are influenza (“the flu”) and the rhinovirus (which causes the common cold).

Is LRTI the same as pneumonia?

Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is a term often used as a synonym for pneumonia but can also be applied to other types of infection including lung abscess and acute bronchitis. Symptoms include shortness of breath, weakness, fever, coughing and fatigue.

What is the difference between LRTI and pneumonia?

Is Covid cough upper or lower respiratory?

Respiratory infections such as COVID-19 start in the upper respiratory tract and, in serious cases, can move into the lower respiratory tract. Respiratory infections are among the most common diseases that affect humans.

What antibiotics are used for respiratory infections?

The recommended first-line treatment is a 10-day course of penicillin. Erythromycin can be used in patients who are allergic to penicillin. Amoxicillin, azithromycin (Zithromax), and first-generation cephalosporins are appropriate alternatives.