Respiratory Infections: Symptoms, Causes & Care

Recognizing The Signs

Symptoms of respiratory infections also vary widely, based upon whether they are in the upper or lower respiratory tract. Symptoms include:

• Cough, either dry or productive
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these symptoms in 2024 were among the most common during winter flu season. Lower-respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia are particularly important to diagnose early, since their symptoms can quickly worsen. If you are unsure whether or not you have such an infection, watch for the symptoms of persistent wheezing, shortness of breath, and fever.

Viral Infections versus Bacterial Infections: What's Different?

Since the COVID-19 outbreak began in 2020, public awareness of how to distinguish viral from bacterial respiratory infections has increased significantly. Viral infections, such as influenza or the common cold, generally resolve with rest, fluids, and supportive care. Bacterial infections, by contrast, might need to be treated with antibiotics to kill off the causative pathogen.

Inappropriate antibiotic use, especially in cases of viral infections, is responsible for an escalation in antibiotic resistance. This was emphasized in a Mayo Clinic research published in 2023 that promoted more targeted diagnostic techniques in primary care.

When Should We Seek Medical Attention?

While most respiratory infections clear up by themselves, several warning signs are reason to seek out a health care provider. They include:

• Sustained or high fever
• Symptoms that are either exacerbated or not relieved after 5–7 days
• Severe or increasing chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Blood in sputum or mucus

Reports from four urgent care centers in 2024 showed that there was an increased number of respiratory-related admissions during winter, supporting the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment.