🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 62 (from laksa130)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa062.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections","crawl_time":1775328567,"first_indexed_time":1466051318,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,rileychildrens!www,\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections s443","src_root_hash":"9882229894016923662","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections | Riley Children's Health","meta_descriptions":["Complicated respiratory tract infections affect the lungs, airways, sinuses and throat. Learn how pediatric specialists at Riley at IU Health treat these…"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections.\nGenerally, there are two groups of respiratory infections:\nUpper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).\nThese infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses.\nLower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).\nThese infections occur in the airways and the lungs.\nUsually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\nComplications of a respiratory infection may include:\nEmpyema.\nEmpyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain.\nLung abscess.\nA lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as\npneumonia\nor\ntuberculosis\nor from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth.\nPotts puffy tumor.\nThis is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever.\nOrbital cellulitis.\nOrbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements.\nOrbital abscess.\nAlso a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever.\nMastoiditis.\nMastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear.\nSome respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\nIf your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests:\nBlood tests\n. These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood.\nImaging tests.\nA chest X-ray or\ncomputed tomography (CT)\nscan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses.\nThroat or nasal swab.\nThis test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection.\nTreatments\nTreatments\nTreatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal.\nMost bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines.\nChildren who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and\/or oxygen therapy.\nKey Points to Remember\nKey Points to Remember\nUpper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat.\nTreatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and\/or at-home care.\nComplicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\nDepending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment.\nSome respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\nSupport Services & Resources\nSupport Services & Resources\nFor more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below.\nLocations\nLocations\nLocations\nIn addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.\nSee all facilities →\nDepartments Treating This Condition","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to Main Content](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#main-content)\n\n[![Mobile sized logo]()](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/)\n\n- [317\\.944.5000](tel:317.944.5000)\n- I want to...\n  - [Schedule an Appointment](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/schedule-an-appointment)\n  - [Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/form\/refer-a-patient)\n  - [Plan My Visit](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/plan-my-visit)\n  - [Pay a Bill](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/pay-a-bill)\n  - [Make a Donation](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/ways-to-give)\n  - [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/volunteer)\n  - [Find a Career](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-professionals\/career-opportunities)\n- Menu\n  - [Health Information](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info)\n  - [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor)\n  - [Departments & Programs](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments)\n  - [Support Services](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/support-services)\n  - [Contact & Locations](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/contact-and-locations)\n  - [Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/form\/refer-a-patient)\n  - [My IU Health Patient Portal](https:\/\/myiuhealth.org\/)\n- [Search](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/search\/all)\n\n[![Riley Children's Health]()](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/)\n\n- [317\\.944.5000](tel:317.944.5000)\n- [My IU Health Patient Portal](https:\/\/myiuhealth.org\/)\n- I want to...\n  - [Schedule an Appointment](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/schedule-an-appointment)\n  - [Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/form\/refer-a-patient)\n  - [Plan My Visit](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/plan-my-visit)\n  - [Pay a Bill](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/pay-a-bill)\n  - [Make a Donation](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/ways-to-give)\n  - [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/volunteer)\n  - [Find a Career](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-professionals\/career-opportunities)\n- [Search](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/search\/all)\n\nMenu\n\n[Search](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/search\/all)\n\n- I want to...\n  - [Schedule an Appointment](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/schedule-an-appointment)\n  - [Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/form\/refer-a-patient)\n  - [Plan My Visit](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/plan-my-visit)\n  - [Pay a Bill](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/pay-a-bill)\n  - [Make a Donation](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/ways-to-give)\n  - [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/volunteer)\n  - [Find a Career](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-professionals\/career-opportunities)\n- [Health Information](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info)\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor)\n- [Departments & Programs](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments)\n- [Support Services](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/support-services)\n- [Contact & Locations](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/contact-and-locations)\n- [My IU Health Patient Portal](https:\/\/myiuhealth.org\/)\n- [General Information **317\\.944.5000**](tel:3179445000)\n\n- [Health Information](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info)\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor)\n- [Departments & Programs](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments)\n- [Support Services](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/support-services)\n- [Contact & Locations](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/contact-and-locations)\n\n[![Riley Children's Health]()](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/)\n\n# Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections\n![Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/assets\/images\/banners\/conditions-and-services\/leaves-575x475.jpg)\n\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor)\n\n- On This Page:\n- [Treatments](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#block-9356)\n- [Key Points to Remember](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#block-9357)\n- [Support Services & Resources](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#support)\n- [Locations](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#locations)\n- [Departments Treating This Condition](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#treating)\n\n[Go back to the top of the page](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections \"Go back to the top of the page\")\n\nA respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections.\n\nGenerally, there are two groups of respiratory infections:\n\n- **Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).** These infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses.\n- **Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).** These infections occur in the airways and the lungs.\n\nUsually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\n\n**Complications of a respiratory infection may include:**\n\n- **Empyema.** Empyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain.\n- **Lung abscess.** A lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as [pneumonia](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/pneumonia) or [tuberculosis](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/tuberculosis) or from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth.\n- **Potts puffy tumor.** This is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever.\n- **Orbital cellulitis.** Orbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements.\n- **Orbital abscess.** Also a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever.\n- **Mastoiditis.** Mastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear.\n\nSome respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\n\n## Diagnosis of Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections\nIf your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests:\n\n- [Blood tests](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/blood-tests). These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood.\n- **Imaging tests.** A chest X-ray or [computed tomography (CT)](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/computed-tomography) scan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses.\n- **Throat or nasal swab.** This test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection.\n\n## Treatments\n## Treatments\nTreatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal.\n\nMost bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines.\n\nChildren who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and\/or oxygen therapy.\n\n## Key Points to Remember\n## Key Points to Remember\n- Upper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat.\n- Treatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and\/or at-home care.\n- Complicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\n- Depending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment.\n- Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\n\n## Support Services & Resources\n## Support Services & Resources\nFor more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below.\n\nWe offer a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.\n\n[Learn More About Riley Support Services](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/support-services)\n\n**[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](http:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\/yellowbook\/2016\/the-pre-travel-consultation\/respiratory-infections)**\n\nLearn about the risk of respiratory infections when traveling.\n\n## Locations\n## Locations\n## Locations\nIn addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.\n\n[Riley Pediatric Infectious Disease](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/meridian-crossing)\n\n[4\\.6 out of 5 stars (30 ratings)](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/meridian-crossing)\n\n[i](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/meridian-crossing)\n\n[Score is an average rating from all responses on location-specific questions on our nationally recognized patient experience survey.](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/meridian-crossing) [**Learn About Survey**](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor\/about-the-survey)\n\n11590 N. Meridian St.  \n Carmel, IN 46032\n\n**[317\\.944.7260](tel:317.944.7260)**\n\n[Get Directions](https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/\/11590%20N.%20Meridian%20St.,%20Carmel,%20IN,%2046032)\n\n[View location information](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/meridian-crossing)\n\n[Riley Pediatric Infectious Disease](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases)\n\n[4\\.6 out of 5 stars (57 ratings)](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases)\n\n[i](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases)\n\n[Score is an average rating from all responses on location-specific questions on our nationally recognized patient experience survey.](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [**Learn About Survey**](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/find-a-doctor\/about-the-survey)\n\n575 Riley Hospital Dr.  \n Indianapolis, IN 46202\n\n**[317\\.944.7260](tel:317.944.7260)**\n\n[Get Directions](https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/\/575%20Riley%20Hospital%20Dr.,%20Indianapolis,%20IN,%2046202)\n\n[View location information](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/practice-location\/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases)\n\n**[See all facilities →](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/contact-and-locations\/results)**\n\n## Departments Treating This Condition\n## Departments Treating This Condition\n- [Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments\/ear-nose-throat)\n- [Pediatric Infectious Diseases](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments\/infectious-diseases)\n- [Pediatric Pulmonology](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/departments\/pulmonology-respiratory-care)\n\n[![Riley Children's Health](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/assets\/images\/logo--footer.png)](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/)\n\n[![Indiana University School of Medicine]()](http:\/\/medicine.iu.edu\/)\n\n[![Designated as Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Ranked in 10 Specialties in 2023-24]()](https:\/\/health.usnews.com\/best-hospitals\/area\/in\/riley-hospital-for-children-at-iu-health-PA6420020)\n\n©2026 Riley Hospital for Children at  \n Indiana University Health  \n Find adult services at **[iuhealth.org](http:\/\/iuhealth.org\/)**\n\n#### Get Informed\n- [About Riley Children's Health](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about)\n- [Research & Innovation](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/research)\n- [Health Professionals](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-professionals)\n- [Medical Education](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/medical-education)\n- [Newsroom](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/newsroom)\n- [Riley Connections Blog](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/connections)\n- [Legal Notices](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices)\n\n#### I Want To…\n- [Schedule an Appointment](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/schedule-an-appointment)\n- [Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/form\/refer-a-patient)\n- [Plan My Visit](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/plan-my-visit)\n- [Pay a Bill](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/pay-a-bill)\n- [Make a Donation](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/ways-to-give)\n- [Volunteer](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/about\/volunteer)\n- [Find a Career](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-professionals\/career-opportunities)\n\n#### General Information\n### [**317\\.944.5000**](tel:317.944.5000)\n#### Connect with Riley Children's Health\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RileyChildrensHealth)\n- [Youtube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCDQ0ezEKRpjOZxZJob7oOnw)\n- [Linkedin](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/riley-childrens-health\/)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rileychildrens\/)\n- [Rss](http:\/\/iuhealth.org\/rss-feeds\/)\n\n[![Designated as Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Ranked in 10 Specialties in 2023-24]()](https:\/\/health.usnews.com\/best-hospitals\/area\/in\/riley-hospital-for-children-at-iu-health-PA6420020)\n\n©2026 Riley Hospital for Children at  \n Indiana University Health  \n Find adult services at **[iuhealth.org](http:\/\/iuhealth.org\/)**\n***\n#### [Non-discrimination Notice](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice)\n- [English](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-english)\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-spanish)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-arabic)\n- [Burmese](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-burmese)\n- [中文](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-chinese)\n- [Nederlands](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-dutch)\n- [Pennsilfaanisch Deitsch](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-pennsylvania-dutch)\n- [Falam Chin](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-falam-chin)\n- [Français](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-french)\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-german)\n- [Haitian Creole](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-haitian-creole)\n- [Hakha](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-hakha-chin)\n- [हिंदी](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-hindi)\n- [日本語](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-japanese)\n- [Karen](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-karen)\n- [Kinyarwanda](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-kinyarwanda)\n- [한국어](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-korean)\n- [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-punjabi)\n- [Русский](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-russian)\n- [Swahili](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-swahili)\n- [Tagalog](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-tagalog)\n- [Tigrinya](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-tigrinya)\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/legal-notices\/non-discrimination-notice#block-vietnamese)\n\n[Back to top of the page](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections \"Go back to the top of the page\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections.\n\nGenerally, there are two groups of respiratory infections:\n\n- **Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).** These infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses.\n- **Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).** These infections occur in the airways and the lungs.\n\nUsually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\n\n**Complications of a respiratory infection may include:**\n\n- **Empyema.** Empyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain.\n- **Lung abscess.** A lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as [pneumonia](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/pneumonia) or [tuberculosis](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/tuberculosis) or from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth.\n- **Potts puffy tumor.** This is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever.\n- **Orbital cellulitis.** Orbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements.\n- **Orbital abscess.** Also a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever.\n- **Mastoiditis.** Mastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear.\n\nSome respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\n\nIf your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests:\n\n- [Blood tests](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/blood-tests). These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood.\n- **Imaging tests.** A chest X-ray or [computed tomography (CT)](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/health-info\/computed-tomography) scan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses.\n- **Throat or nasal swab.** This test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection.\n\n## Treatments\n## Treatments\nTreatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal.\n\nMost bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines.\n\nChildren who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and\/or oxygen therapy.\n\n## Key Points to Remember\n## Key Points to Remember\n- Upper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat.\n- Treatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and\/or at-home care.\n- Complicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided.\n- Depending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment.\n- Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus.\n\n## Support Services & Resources\n## Support Services & Resources\nFor more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below.\n\n## Locations\nLocations\n\n## Locations\nIn addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.\n\n**[See all facilities →](https:\/\/www.rileychildrens.org\/contact-and-locations\/results)**\n## Departments Treating This Condition","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

8 days ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0.3 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections
Last Crawled	2026-04-04 18:49:27 (8 days ago)
First Indexed	2016-06-16 04:28:38 (9 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections \| Riley Children's Health
Meta Description	Complicated respiratory tract infections affect the lungs, airways, sinuses and throat. Learn how pediatric specialists at Riley at IU Health treat these…
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections. Generally, there are two groups of respiratory infections: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). These infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses. Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). These infections occur in the airways and the lungs. Usually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. Complications of a respiratory infection may include: Empyema. Empyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain. Lung abscess. A lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as pneumonia or tuberculosis or from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth. Potts puffy tumor. This is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever. Orbital cellulitis. Orbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements. Orbital abscess. Also a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever. Mastoiditis. Mastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear. Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. If your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests: Blood tests . These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood. Imaging tests. A chest X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses. Throat or nasal swab. This test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection. Treatments Treatments Treatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal. Most bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines. Children who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and/or oxygen therapy. Key Points to Remember Key Points to Remember Upper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Treatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and/or at-home care. Complicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. Depending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment. Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. Support Services & Resources Support Services & Resources For more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below. Locations Locations Locations In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state. See all facilities → Departments Treating This Condition
Markdown	[Skip to Main Content](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#main-content) [![Mobile sized logo]()](https://www.rileychildrens.org/) - [317\.944.5000](tel:317.944.5000) - I want to... - [Schedule an Appointment](https://www.rileychildrens.org/schedule-an-appointment) - [Refer a Patient](https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/refer-a-patient) - [Plan My Visit](https://www.rileychildrens.org/plan-my-visit) - [Pay a Bill](https://www.rileychildrens.org/pay-a-bill) - [Make a Donation](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/ways-to-give) - [Volunteer](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/volunteer) - [Find a Career](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-professionals/career-opportunities) - Menu - [Health Information](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor) - [Departments & Programs](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments) - [Support Services](https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services) - [Contact & Locations](https://www.rileychildrens.org/contact-and-locations) - [Refer a Patient](https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/refer-a-patient) - [My IU Health Patient Portal](https://myiuhealth.org/) - [Search](https://www.rileychildrens.org/search/all) [![Riley Children's Health]()](https://www.rileychildrens.org/) - [317\.944.5000](tel:317.944.5000) - [My IU Health Patient Portal](https://myiuhealth.org/) - I want to... - [Schedule an Appointment](https://www.rileychildrens.org/schedule-an-appointment) - [Refer a Patient](https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/refer-a-patient) - [Plan My Visit](https://www.rileychildrens.org/plan-my-visit) - [Pay a Bill](https://www.rileychildrens.org/pay-a-bill) - [Make a Donation](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/ways-to-give) - [Volunteer](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/volunteer) - [Find a Career](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-professionals/career-opportunities) - [Search](https://www.rileychildrens.org/search/all) Menu [Search](https://www.rileychildrens.org/search/all) - I want to... - [Schedule an Appointment](https://www.rileychildrens.org/schedule-an-appointment) - [Refer a Patient](https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/refer-a-patient) - [Plan My Visit](https://www.rileychildrens.org/plan-my-visit) - [Pay a Bill](https://www.rileychildrens.org/pay-a-bill) - [Make a Donation](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/ways-to-give) - [Volunteer](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/volunteer) - [Find a Career](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-professionals/career-opportunities) - [Health Information](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor) - [Departments & Programs](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments) - [Support Services](https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services) - [Contact & Locations](https://www.rileychildrens.org/contact-and-locations) - [My IU Health Patient Portal](https://myiuhealth.org/) - [General Information 317\.944.5000](tel:3179445000) - [Health Information](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor) - [Departments & Programs](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments) - [Support Services](https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services) - [Contact & Locations](https://www.rileychildrens.org/contact-and-locations) [![Riley Children's Health]()](https://www.rileychildrens.org/) # Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections ![Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections](https://www.rileychildrens.org/assets/images/banners/conditions-and-services/leaves-575x475.jpg) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor) - On This Page: - [Treatments](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#block-9356) - [Key Points to Remember](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#block-9357) - [Support Services & Resources](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#support) - [Locations](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#locations) - [Departments Treating This Condition](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections#treating) [Go back to the top of the page](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections "Go back to the top of the page") A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections. Generally, there are two groups of respiratory infections: - Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). These infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses. - Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). These infections occur in the airways and the lungs. Usually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. Complications of a respiratory infection may include: - Empyema. Empyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain. - Lung abscess. A lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as [pneumonia](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/pneumonia) or [tuberculosis](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/tuberculosis) or from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth. - Potts puffy tumor. This is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever. - Orbital cellulitis. Orbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements. - Orbital abscess. Also a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever. - Mastoiditis. Mastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear. Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. ## Diagnosis of Complicated Respiratory Tract Infections If your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests: - [Blood tests](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/blood-tests). These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood. - Imaging tests. A chest X-ray or [computed tomography (CT)](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/computed-tomography) scan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses. - Throat or nasal swab. This test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection. ## Treatments ## Treatments Treatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal. Most bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines. Children who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and/or oxygen therapy. ## Key Points to Remember ## Key Points to Remember - Upper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. - Treatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and/or at-home care. - Complicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. - Depending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment. - Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. ## Support Services & Resources ## Support Services & Resources For more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below. We offer a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care. [Learn More About Riley Support Services](https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services) [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2016/the-pre-travel-consultation/respiratory-infections) Learn about the risk of respiratory infections when traveling. ## Locations ## Locations ## Locations In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state. [Riley Pediatric Infectious Disease](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/meridian-crossing) [4\.6 out of 5 stars (30 ratings)](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/meridian-crossing) [i](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/meridian-crossing) [Score is an average rating from all responses on location-specific questions on our nationally recognized patient experience survey.](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/meridian-crossing) [Learn About Survey](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor/about-the-survey) 11590 N. Meridian St. Carmel, IN 46032 [317\.944.7260](tel:317.944.7260) [Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir//11590%20N.%20Meridian%20St.,%20Carmel,%20IN,%2046032) [View location information](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/meridian-crossing) [Riley Pediatric Infectious Disease](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [4\.6 out of 5 stars (57 ratings)](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [i](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [Score is an average rating from all responses on location-specific questions on our nationally recognized patient experience survey.](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [Learn About Survey](https://www.rileychildrens.org/find-a-doctor/about-the-survey) 575 Riley Hospital Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46202 [317\.944.7260](tel:317.944.7260) [Get Directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir//575%20Riley%20Hospital%20Dr.,%20Indianapolis,%20IN,%2046202) [View location information](https://www.rileychildrens.org/practice-location/riley-at-indiana-university-health-outpatient-center-infectious-diseases) [See all facilities →](https://www.rileychildrens.org/contact-and-locations/results) ## Departments Treating This Condition ## Departments Treating This Condition - [Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments/ear-nose-throat) - [Pediatric Infectious Diseases](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments/infectious-diseases) - [Pediatric Pulmonology](https://www.rileychildrens.org/departments/pulmonology-respiratory-care) [![Riley Children's Health](https://www.rileychildrens.org/assets/images/logo--footer.png)](https://www.rileychildrens.org/) [![Indiana University School of Medicine]()](http://medicine.iu.edu/) [![Designated as Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Ranked in 10 Specialties in 2023-24]()](https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/in/riley-hospital-for-children-at-iu-health-PA6420020) ©2026 Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health Find adult services at [iuhealth.org](http://iuhealth.org/) #### Get Informed - [About Riley Children's Health](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about) - [Research & Innovation](https://www.rileychildrens.org/research) - [Health Professionals](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-professionals) - [Medical Education](https://www.rileychildrens.org/medical-education) - [Newsroom](https://www.rileychildrens.org/newsroom) - [Riley Connections Blog](https://www.rileychildrens.org/connections) - [Legal Notices](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices) #### I Want To… - [Schedule an Appointment](https://www.rileychildrens.org/schedule-an-appointment) - [Refer a Patient](https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/refer-a-patient) - [Plan My Visit](https://www.rileychildrens.org/plan-my-visit) - [Pay a Bill](https://www.rileychildrens.org/pay-a-bill) - [Make a Donation](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/ways-to-give) - [Volunteer](https://www.rileychildrens.org/about/volunteer) - [Find a Career](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-professionals/career-opportunities) #### General Information ### [317\.944.5000](tel:317.944.5000) #### Connect with Riley Children's Health - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/RileyChildrensHealth) - [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ0ezEKRpjOZxZJob7oOnw) - [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/company/riley-childrens-health/) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/rileychildrens/) - [Rss](http://iuhealth.org/rss-feeds/) [![Designated as Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, Ranked in 10 Specialties in 2023-24]()](https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/in/riley-hospital-for-children-at-iu-health-PA6420020) ©2026 Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health Find adult services at [iuhealth.org](http://iuhealth.org/) *** #### [Non-discrimination Notice](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice) - [English](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-english) - [Español](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-spanish) - [العربية](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-arabic) - [Burmese](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-burmese) - [中文](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-chinese) - [Nederlands](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-dutch) - [Pennsilfaanisch Deitsch](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-pennsylvania-dutch) - [Falam Chin](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-falam-chin) - [Français](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-french) - [Deutsch](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-german) - [Haitian Creole](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-haitian-creole) - [Hakha](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-hakha-chin) - [हिंदी](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-hindi) - [日本語](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-japanese) - [Karen](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-karen) - [Kinyarwanda](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-kinyarwanda) - [한국어](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-korean) - [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-punjabi) - [Русский](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-russian) - [Swahili](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-swahili) - [Tagalog](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-tagalog) - [Tigrinya](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-tigrinya) - [Tiếng Việt](https://www.rileychildrens.org/legal-notices/non-discrimination-notice#block-vietnamese) [Back to top of the page](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections "Go back to the top of the page")
Readable Markdown	A respiratory tract infection is an infection of the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. Viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi cause respiratory infections. Children tend to get respiratory infections because they have not built up resistance to the viruses that cause most of these infections. Generally, there are two groups of respiratory infections: - Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). These infections affect the nose, throat and sinuses. - Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). These infections occur in the airways and the lungs. Usually, respiratory infections are cured completely if treated early, but serious, complex infections may be life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. Complications of a respiratory infection may include: - Empyema. Empyema is a collection of pus beside the lungs, caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening problems such as sepsis (bacteria in the blood) and shock. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain. - Lung abscess. A lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is usually caused by a severe infection such as [pneumonia](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/pneumonia) or [tuberculosis](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/tuberculosis) or from inhaling material into the lungs from the mouth. - Potts puffy tumor. This is an uncommon complication of sinusitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation of the sinus cavities in the skull). It is an abscess of the forehead area with frontal swelling. Potts puffy tumor is usually seen in late childhood or adolescence. Symptoms include red, tender swelling in the mid-forehead, headache and fever. - Orbital cellulitis. Orbital cellulitis is another possible complication of sinusitis. This is an infection of the tissue within the eye socket and around the eye. Symptoms include pain, swelling, red eye, fever, a bulging eye, impaired vision and impaired eye movements. - Orbital abscess. Also a further complication of sinusitis causing orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess is a collection of bacteria and pus behind the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, bulging of the eye, redness of the eye, changes in vision and fever. - Mastoiditis. Mastoiditis is a complication of otitis (a type of upper respiratory tract infection that causes inflammation and possible infection of the middle ear). This is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone behind the ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, headache, drainage from the infected ear, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected ear. Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. If your child has a complicated respiratory infection, the doctor may perform one or more of these tests: - [Blood tests](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/blood-tests). These tests are performed to see if bacteria are in the blood. - Imaging tests. A chest X-ray or [computed tomography (CT)](https://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/computed-tomography) scan may be performed to check for infections in the chest, lungs, orbits or sinuses. - Throat or nasal swab. This test takes a sample of cells and mucus from the nose, throat or tonsils to find the cause of the infection. ## Treatments ## Treatments Treatment for lung infections depends on how severe the illness is and whether the infection is bacterial, viral or fungal. Most bacterial infections are treated with a full course of prescribed antibiotics. Viral infections are often treated at home with rest and symptom care since antibiotics are usually ineffective. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medicines. Children who are at greater risk for serious complications may be hospitalized. For severe symptoms, treatment may include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and/or oxygen therapy. ## Key Points to Remember ## Key Points to Remember - Upper and lower respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma (a special kind of bacteria) and fungi in the lungs, airways, sinuses or throat. - Treatment for a respiratory tract infection is usually antibiotics and/or at-home care. - Complicated respiratory infections can become life-threatening if proper treatment is not provided. - Depending on the severity of the illness, some children are hospitalized for treatment. - Some respiratory infections and their complications can be prevented with timely vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcus. ## Support Services & Resources ## Support Services & Resources For more information about complicated respiratory tract infections, please visit the resources below. ## Locations Locations ## Locations In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state. [See all facilities →](https://www.rileychildrens.org/contact-and-locations/results) ## Departments Treating This Condition
Shard	62 (laksa)
Root Hash	9882229894016923662
Unparsed URL	org,rileychildrens!www,/health-info/complicated-respiratory-tract-infections s443