Lower Respiratory Tract Infection

Question 1

What is a lower respiratory tract infection?

Answer 1

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTI) are infections that affect the airways (below the level of the larynx), including the trachea and the alveolar sacs.
- These include pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis. 

Question 2

What are some causes of LRTIs?

Answer 2

1. viruses, as with the flu or respiratory syncytial virus(RSV) 
2. bacteria, such as Streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus 
3. fungal infections 
4. mycoplasma, which are neither viruses or bacteria but are small organisms with characteristics of both 
5. In some cases, substances from the environment can irritate or cause inflammation in the airways or lungs, which can lead to an infection. These include: 
   - tobacco smoke 
   - dust 
   - chemicals 
   - vapours and fumes 
   - allergens 
   - air pollution 

Question 3

What are the risk factors for LRTI’s?

Answer 3

• a recent cold or flu 
• a weakened immune system 
• being more than 65 years old 
• being under 5 years old 
• recent surgery 

Question 4

What are the presenting symptoms of a LRTI?

Answer 4

• a stuffed up or a runny nose 
• a dry cough 
• a low fever 
• a mild sore throat 
• a dull headache 

In more severe infections, symptoms can include: 
- a severe cough that may produce phlegm 
- fever 
- difficulty breathing 
- rapid breathing 
- chest pain 
- wheezing W

Question 5

What signs of lower resp tract infection can be found on physical examination?

Answer 5

• A blue tint to the skin/cyanosis. 
• muscle aches. 
• coughing and sneezing. 
• changes in taste and smell. 
• a fever. 
• Pressure in the ears and face. 

Question 6

What investigations are used to diagnose/ monitor a LRTI?

Answer 6

1. Pulse Oximetry
2. CXR
3. Blood Test
4. Laboratory Tests

Question 7

How are LRTI’s managed?

Answer 7

• over-the-counter medications for a cough or fever 
• plenty of rest 
• drinking plenty of fluids 
• In other cases, a doctor may prescribe additional treatment. This may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, or breathing treatments, such as an inhaler. 

Question 8

What complications may arise following a LRTI?

Answer 8

• Congestive heart failure 
• Respiratory failure 
• Respiratory arrest 
• Sepsis 
• Lung abscesses 

Question 9

Describe the prognosis of a LRTI

Answer 9

Recovery time for a lower respiratory tract infection varies from person to person; a healthy young adult can recover from a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia, in around 1 week