Respiratory illness: symptoms, prevention, and what to do

Short coughs and sniffles can be annoying, but some respiratory illnesses need quick attention. This page gives simple, practical advice you can use today: how to spot serious signs, basic home care, prevention tips, and when to get medical help.

Respiratory illness covers infections and conditions that affect the airways and lungs. That includes common colds, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, and worsening asthma or COPD. Symptoms overlap, so focus on key red flags and steps to stop spread.

Common symptoms and red flags

Watch for these common signs: runny or blocked nose, sore throat, cough, mild fever, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Most mild infections improve in a few days. But seek care if you notice:

- Breathing fast or struggling to breathe.
- Chest pain or pressure.
- Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty waking up.
- Lips or face turning blue or gray.
- High fever that won’t come down or lasts more than 3 days.
- Symptoms that get much worse after a few days instead of better.

If you’re older, very young, pregnant, or have long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or lung problems, call a health worker sooner rather than later.

Simple home care and when to test

Start with rest, fluids, and simple fever relief like paracetamol. Use a clean mask if you’re around others and cough into your elbow. For children, watch for reduced drinking, sunken eyes, or less activity—those mean see a doctor.

Testing for specific viruses (like flu or COVID) helps when treatment is available or to protect others. Get tested if a health worker recommends it, or if you work with vulnerable people. If symptoms are mild, testing isn’t always needed—focus on staying home and isolating from high-risk family members.

Antibiotics won’t help viral infections. A doctor will prescribe them only if a bacterial infection is suspected. If you’re offered antivirals for severe flu or early COVID in high-risk groups, take them as instructed.

For asthma or COPD patients: keep rescue inhalers handy, follow your action plan, and call your clinician if you use reliever inhalers much more than usual.

Prevention works. Wash hands, cover coughs, keep rooms ventilated, and avoid crowded indoor spaces if outbreaks are active. Vaccines for flu and COVID reduce severe illness—get them if you can.

Air pollution and smoking make respiratory problems worse. If possible, avoid smoky areas, reduce indoor pollution (clean cookstoves, open windows), and quit smoking. These steps cut the risk of severe infections and speed recovery.

Want to stay informed? Check local health advice during seasonal outbreaks and reach out to community clinics for free or low-cost care. Quick action saves lives—don’t delay if breathing gets hard or symptoms spike.