What Is a Respiratory Infection? A respiratory infection occurs when an infection starts to interfere with a person’s normal breathing. The infection can start in your upper respiratory system and go all the way down to your vocal chords. If it’s not treated in a timely manner, it can also affect your lungs.
Symptoms of a Respiratory Infection
- Body aches
- Congestion
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
How Long Can a Respiratory Infection Last?
Most of the time, a respiratory infection’s symptoms will only last from three to 14 days. If symptoms last longer than a couple weeks, you might be suffering from something other than a respiratory infection, like pneumonia or bronchitis.At-home Treatment for Respiratory Infection
- Take OTC pain relievers to ease aches.
- Gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat.
- Try nasal decongestants to improve breathing.
- Inhale steam over a sink or in the shower.