A Prospective Observational Study on Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Management of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

Research Article

Abstract

This study examined the occurrence, influencing factors, and treatment approaches for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) in the General Medicine Department of Basaweshwar Teaching and General Hospital, Kalaburagi, over six months. Participants aged 18 and above, of both genders, diagnosed with LRTIs, were included in this prospective observational study. Data from 100 cases were collected using structured forms to analyze the prevalence, risk factors, and management strategies for LRTIs. The findings revealed that males constituted the majority (60%) of LRTI cases, with a higher prevalence observed in individuals under 60 years of age. Pneumonia emerged as the most prevalent LRTI subtype (40%). Diagnosis relied on clinical, radiological, and laboratory assessments, with imaging modalities such as X-ray and CT scans frequently employed. Streptococcus pneumoniae was commonly identified as the causative microorganism through sputum smear examinations. Clinical symptoms primarily included cough, shortness of breath, fever, and pulmonary congestion. Commonly prescribed antibiotics included Amoxicillin + Clavulanate, Ceftriaxone, Levofloxacin, and nebulized inhalational drugs such as Salbutamol and Albuterol. In conclusion, this study documented 100 cases of LRTIs over six months, with a male predominance and pneumonia as the most frequent subtype, particularly affecting individuals below 60 years old. Weakened immune systems, age, male gender, and habits like smoking and alcohol consumption were significant risk factors. However, the lack of consistent sputum examination highlighted a gap in clinical practice essential for specific treatment