Upper Respiratory Infections

An upper respiratory infection is a contagious infection of the throat and nasal passages. It causes inflammation in the mucous membrane of your upper respiratory tract, and some seriously miserable symptoms. Symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, cough, and mucus production. Fever, headache, fatigue, and wheezing are also common. These symptoms generally worsen during the first 3 to 5 days, and then gradually improve. Most infections will clear within 2 weeks.

The common cold, sinusitis, ear infections and bronchitis are all types of upper respiratory infections.

Treating an Upper Respiratory Infection

When treating a viral upper respiratory infection, our focus is on alleviating your symptoms, since viruses do not respond to antibiotics. Cough suppressants, nasal decongestants, and analgesics such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs can provide you some relief.

If your infection is caused by bacteria, our providers can prescribe antibiotics.

For symptoms that are severe or long lasting, it’s especially important to seek medical help. Secondary bacterial infections may develop, and require treatment. Head to the doctor ASAP 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

Get fast, affordable treatment for Upper Respiratory Infections at Gateway Family and Urgent Care!