If you have a runny nose, an aching throat, and a cough that won’t quit, you can probably blame it on an upper respiratory infection (URI). URIs are one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor, especially in fall and winter. Educate yourself on the illness, and learn ways to battle the miserable symptoms associated with it.
What is an upper respiratory infection?
An upper respiratory infection is a term used to describe a contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract (the nose, throat, airways, sinuses, and ears). Most URIs are viral illnesses, though some are caused by bacteria. Upper respiratory infections (URIs) typically include conditions such as the common cold, sinusitis, and laryngitis. These infections are usually caused by viruses like rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or influenza.
What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, and how long will they last?
Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection are caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes in your upper respiratory tract. They include runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, cough, and mucus production. Fever, headache, fatigue, and wheezing are also common.
Upper respiratory infections in children
Children are especially susceptible due to their developing immune systems and frequent exposure to other children in schools or daycare settings. Most URIs are self-limiting and resolve within a week to ten days, requiring only supportive care such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief.
While upper respiratory infections in kids are generally mild, they can occasionally lead to complications such as ear infections, wheezing, or worsening of asthma. Parents should monitor for warning signs like high fever, difficulty breathing, or symptoms persisting beyond ten days, which may indicate a secondary bacterial infection or another underlying issue.
Preventive measures, including good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying up to date on vaccinations like the flu shot, can help reduce the risk and spread of URIs among children. When in doubt, a pediatrician should be consulted to ensure appropriate management.
How do you treat an upper respiratory infection?
If a bacteria is causing your upper respiratory infection, a doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat it. However, antibiotics are ineffective for viral URIs. In these instances, treatment is focused on alleviating symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe or long lasting, it’s important to seek medical help. Secondary bacterial infections may develop, and require treatment. Head to the doctor if you experience:
- A fever greater than 101 F for more than two days
- Shortness of breath, pain or tightness in your chest, wheezing
- A painful cough that worsens, or lasts longer than two weeks
- A bad sore throat that worsens, or lasts longer than three days
- Swollen glands in your neck that aren’t going away
- Pain in your face or teeth that does not improve
- A long-lasting, or severe headache
- A rash
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Significant drowsiness or confusion
Walk into our clinic 7 days a week for affordable treatment of an upper respiratory infection. With x-rays, lab testing, and an amazing medical team on staff, we’re here to help you feel better.