Lower respiratory tract infection (RESP)

Question 1

What diseases do LRTIs include? (3)

Answer 1

• pneumonia
• lung abscess
• acute bronchitis (LRTI causing inflammation in bronchial airways)

Question 2

How do LRTIs differ from URTIs in severity?

Answer 2

LRTIs are more serious than URTIs

Question 3

Which out of URTIs or LRTIs does influenza affect?

Answer 3

Influenza affects both the upper and lower respiratory tracts

Question 4

What are the clinical features of LRTIs? (6)

Answer 4

• sneezing
• sore throat
• nasal congestion and discharge
• malaise
• muscle pain/fatigue
• pain and fatigue

Question 5

How do you manage LRTIs? (2)

Answer 5

• antibiotics if needed - not routinely indicated but should be offered immediately if person systematically unwell, and should be considered if person at higher risk of complication
• oxygen supplementation