What does RTI mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

A respiratory tract infection (RTI) is an infection of the lungs, nose, and throat that can be caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms usually include coughing, sneezing, sore throat, fever, chills and congestion.

You can get a respiratory tract infection through contact with someone who has an active infection or by inhaling droplets containing the virus or bacteria such as when someone coughs or sneezes near you. Poor hygiene practices such as not washing your hands after coughing or sneezing can also spread germs that cause RTIs.

The most common symptoms of a respiratory tract infection are coughing, sneezing, sore throat, fever, chills and congestion. Other more serious signs may include shortness of breath, chest pain and difficulty breathing.

Your doctor usually diagnoses a respiratory tract infection based on your medical history and physical exam findings including listening to your breathing with a stethoscope for any abnormal sounds such as wheezing or crackling in your lungs. Further tests may be needed to diagnose the cause of the RTI such as blood tests or imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment depends on the type of RTI you have but often includes rest and fluids while managing any pain or discomfort you might feel with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If it's caused by bacteria then antibiotics may be prescribed to help fight off the infection quickly. If it's caused by a virus then antiviral medications may also be prescribed to shorten its duration.