Diseases
lower respiratory tract
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
The major passages and structures of the lower respiratory tract include the windpipe (trachea) and within the lungs, the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. Deep in the lungs, each bronchus divides into secondary and tertiary bronchi, which continue to branch to smaller airways called the bronchioles
Symptoms
- a stuffed up or a runny nose
- a dry cough
- a low fever
- a mild sore throat
- a dull headache
Causes
- viruses, as with the flu or respiratory syncytial virus (rsv)
- bacteria, such as streptococcus or staphylococcus aureus
- fungal infections
Risk factors
- tobacco smoke
- dust
- vapors and fumes
Diagnosis
- pulse oximetry to find how much oxygen is in the blood
- chest x-rays to check for pneumonia
- blood tests to check for bacteria and viruses
- mucus samples to look for bacteria and viruses
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is lower respiratory tract?
The major passages and structures of the lower respiratory tract include the windpipe (trachea) and within the lungs, the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. Deep in the lungs, each bronchus divides into secondary and tertiary bronchi, which continue to branch to smaller airways called the bronchioles
What are the symptoms of lower respiratory tract?
a stuffed up or a runny nose, a dry cough, a low fever, a mild sore throat, a dull headache
What causes lower respiratory tract?
viruses, as with the flu or respiratory syncytial virus (rsv); bacteria, such as streptococcus or staphylococcus aureus; fungal infections
Which medicines are used for lower respiratory tract?
amoxicillin-clavulanic acid
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