Most respiratory infections, such as sore throats, coughs, and sinus congestion, are caused by viruses, which don’t respond to antibiotics.
You may need antibiotics only if your symptoms suggest a bacterial infection, including:

• Fever above 38°C lasting more than 3 days

• Symptoms worsening after initial improvement

• Cough with thick yellow or green mucus and chest pain

• Sinus pressure or ear pain that doesn’t settle after 10 days

Your smartscripts.ie doctor will review your symptoms and medical history to decide if antibiotics are appropriate.

All prescriptions follow HSE and Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) guidelines to ensure antibiotics are used safely and only when truly needed.

For mild or viral respiratory infections, most people feel better within 7–10 days with rest and supportive care.

Helpful home measures include:

• Stay hydrated: warm fluids loosen mucus and ease throat pain.

• Steam inhalation or humidifiers: relieve nasal and chest congestion.

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen: reduce pain, fever, and body aches.

• Saltwater gargles: soothe sore throats.

• Rest and avoid smoking or alcohol, which can irritate your airways.

If your symptoms worsen, last longer than 2 weeks, or include shortness of breath or chest pain, you should arrange an in-person medical review.

It’s not always easy to tell, but certain signs can help distinguish the two:

Viral infections (like colds, flu, or viral bronchitis) usually cause:

• A runny or blocked nose, sore throat, and dry cough

• Low-grade fever and body aches

• Symptoms that improve within 7–10 days

Bacterial infections tend to:

• Last longer than 10 days or worsen after initial recovery

• Produce thick yellow/green mucus or chest congestion

• Cause high fever (above 38°C) or facial pain

Your smartscripts.ie GP will review your symptoms and decide if antibiotics are necessary.
If the infection appears viral, supportive care and rest are usually all that’s needed.

While most respiratory infections are mild, you should see a doctor in person if you experience:

• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain

• High fever that doesn’t improve with paracetamol or ibuprofen

• Cough lasting more than three weeks

• Coughing up blood or dark sputum

• Severe fatigue or confusion, especially in older adults

If you have underlying conditions, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, or heart disease, you may need closer monitoring.

smartscripts.ie GPs can help manage mild infections safely online, but will always recommend in-person care if your symptoms suggest a more serious illness.