Respiratory infections come in two basic forms: viral and bacterial. Viral infections typically must run their course, and cannot be treated with antibiotics. If you have a viral infection, your doctor will carefully monitor you and may provide treatment to reduce your symptoms. Occasionally, viral infections turn into bacterial infections, so ask your doctor what to look for. If you suddenly feel worse or have a fever, contact your doctor immediately.

Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, and treatment works best if the infection is detected early. Severe infections may warrant intravenous antibiotics and a hospital stay. Rarely, if the infection is resistant to antibiotics, your doctor might have to try several antibiotics or provide supportive care until your immune system addresses the infection on its own.