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An upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) is an illness caused by an acute infection, which involves the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, sinuses, pharynx, larynx or trachea. [3] [4] This commonly includes nasal obstruction, sore throat, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, otitis media, and the common cold.
An upper respiratory infection like the common cold, the flu, or COVID-19. Environmental irritants like smoke or dust. A lower respiratory tract infections like bronchitis or pneumonia.
An infection of this type usually is further classified as an upper respiratory tract infection (URI or URTI) or a lower respiratory tract infection (LRI or LRTI). Lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, tend to be far more severe than upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold.
The distinction between viral upper respiratory tract infections is loosely based on the location of symptoms, with the common cold affecting primarily the nose (rhinitis), throat (pharyngitis), and lungs (bronchitis). [8] There can be significant overlap, and more than one area can be affected. [8] Self-diagnosis is frequent. [4]
Bacterial tracheitis is a bacterial infection of the trachea and is capable of producing airway obstruction. [citation needed] One of the most common causes is Staphylococcus aureus and often follows a recent viral upper respiratory infection. Bacterial tracheitis is a rare complication of influenza infection. [4]
Pharyngitis is a type of upper respiratory tract infection. [7] Most cases are caused by a viral infection. [2] Strep throat, a bacterial infection, is the cause in about 25% of children and 10% of adults. [2] Uncommon causes include other bacteria such as gonococcus, fungi, irritants such as smoke, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.