Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections

When a patient, especially in childhood, has one respiratory illness after another throughout the year, this is referred to as recurrent respiratory tract infections: repeated episodes that affect the nose, throat, ears, or bronchi.

Common causes: Exposure at daycare or school, allergies, pollution, tobacco smoke and, at times, factors related to the immune defenses all play a role.

Common symptoms:

• Colds that recur with little separation between one and the next
• Cough, congestion and, sometimes, ear or throat pain

When should you see a doctor? If the episodes are very frequent, intense, or interfere with daily life, it is advisable to evaluate them. The general practitioner or the pediatrician can guide the evaluation and, if necessary, refer to a specialist for a more detailed review.