Respiratory tract infections (RTIs)

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are infections of parts of the body involved in breathing, such as the sinuses, throat, airways or lungs. Most RTIs get better without treatment, but sometimes you may need to see a GP. Check if you have an RTISymptoms of an RTI include:a cough – you may bring up mucus (phlegm)sneezinga stuffy or runny nosea sore throatheadachesmuscle achesbreathlessness, tight chest or wheezinga high temperaturefeeling generally unwell Things you can do yourselfMost RTIs pass within 1 to 2 weeks. You can usually treat your symptoms at home. Do get plenty of rest drink lots of water to loosen any mucus and make it easier to cough up drink a hot lemon and honey drink to help soothe a cough (not suitable for babies under 1 year old) gargle with warm salty water if you have a sore throat (children should not try this) raise your head up while sleeping using extra pillows to make breathing easier and clear your chest of mucus use painkillers to bring down a fever and hel...