Common symptoms
Cough
Persistent cough, which may be dry or produce colored mucus
Chest congestion
Tightness or heaviness in the chest with mucus buildup
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing deeply or feeling winded with minimal activity
Wheezing
High-pitched whistling sound when breathing, especially exhaling
Fever
Elevated temperature often accompanying respiratory infections
Respiratory infections range from upper tract illnesses (cold, sinusitis) to lower tract illnesses (bronchitis, pneumonia). Viral causes are most common, but bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Chronic conditions like asthma can worsen during an acute respiratory illness.
Acute bronchitis typically peaks in severity during the first week and may last two to three weeks total. Rest, hydration, and symptom management are the mainstay of treatment for viral causes. Bacterial infections require antibiotic therapy.
A residual cough is common after a respiratory infection and can persist for several weeks even after other symptoms resolve. This is normal and typically improves on its own.