Respiratory infection treatment, diagnosis & prescriptions

In most cases, our doctors can diagnose your respiratory infection online by asking about your symptoms.

If the doctor suspects you have a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotics to help you treat that as well.

Doctors can also write sick notes for your respiratory infection in the case you need to be excused from work, school, or other situations.

Yes, our physicians can prescribe medications online during your consultation. Once you accept a prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or we’ll deliver it right to your door at no additional cost.

You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.

A respiratory infection can affect any part of the respiratory system (spanning from your sinuses to your lungs). Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are commonly caused by viruses that you contract through the air, or through physical contact with a virus. Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are more often caused by bacterial infections.

Here are some common types of respiratory infections, and the areas they affect:

Infections of the upper respiratory tract:

Rhinitis - Infection of the nasal cavity
Sinusitis - Infection of the sinuses
Nasopharyngitis - Infection of the areas at the back of the throat (nares, pharynx, hypopharynx, uvula, and tonsils)
Epiglottitis - Infection of the flap that prevents food and liquids from entering the lungs (epiglottis)
Laryngitis - Infection of the voice box (larynx)

Infections of the lower respiratory tract:

Tracheitis - Infection of the windpipe (trachea)
Pneumonia - infection of the lungs
Bronchitis - infection of the bronchial tubes

Symptoms of a respiratory infection include:

• Congestion
• Cough
• Runny/stuffy nose
• Slight body aches
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath

To prevent getting a respiratory infection:

• Reduce contact with others who are showing symptoms of infection
• Wash your hands often with soap and water and use hand sanitizer when you don’t have immediate access to soap or water
• Get the appropriate vaccinations

For lower respiratory tract infections, antibiotics are typically prescribed. In some cases, your doctor may also choose to complement the antibiotic with steroids to reduce inflammation associated with the infection.

In the case of upper respiratory infections, antibiotics are typically not required, as they have no effect against viruses. But there are ways to relieve discomfort:

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
• Ensure you get enough rest
• Take pain relievers for fever, sore throat, and headache
• Use decongestants or nasal sprays to relieve congestion

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