Breathe Easier With Excellent Care

Upper Respiratory Infections

A Quick Reference

About Upper Respiratory Infections

An upper respiratory infection happens when a virus or bacteria infects a person’s throat or sinuses. While it may sound frightening, you’ve probably had many upper respiratory infections in your life. For example, the common cold is an upper respiratory infection. In general, upper respiratory infections are less serious and more common than lower respiratory infections. Lower respiratory infections are viruses and bacteria that affect the chest and lungs.

What to Expect

Common Types of Respiratory Infections

Common types of upper respiratory infections include: common cold, some types of the flu, sinusitis (sinus infection), laryngitis (infection of the voice box), and pharyngitis (sore throat). It’s only a matter of time before you or someone you love catches one of these frustrating illnesses. If and when it happens, know the signs, how treatment works, and where to go for help.

What to Watch For

Signs and Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections are easily spread from person to person. If someone in your household has an upper respiratory infection, you may also develop these symptoms. To stop the spread of these infections, make sure you wash hands frequently, cover your mouth while sneezing or coughing, and avoid touching your face. Some common symptoms include the following.

Cough

Can be either a wet or a dry cough

Fever

Typical symptoms or ailments associated with a fever

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Noticeably swollen lymph nodes, especially on the sides of your neck

Sore Throat

Sore, itchy, scratchy, or irritated feelings in your throat

Red, Sore, or Tired Eyes

Noticeably sore or tired eyes, especially when paired with redness

Runny Nose / Congestion

Typical runny nose and / or congestion symptoms

Fatigue

General feelings of fatigue like tiredness or weakness

Hoarse Voice

Sudden appearance of a scratchy or hoarse voice

How We Can Help

Testing & Treatment for Upper Respiratory Infections

Healthcare providers use physical exams to diagnose and treat upper respiratory infections. They look at the patient’s throat, ears, and nose. They also use a stethoscope to listen to the person’s lungs and heart. Most often, further testing is not required.

Physical Examination

Listen to Heart & Lungs

Advanced Testing

Testing & Treatment for Severe Upper Respiratory Infections

In severe cases, your provider may recommend further testing to rule out more dangerous diseases or test for bacterial causes of the infection. Healthcare providers may recommend any of the following tests:

Chest X-Ray

Throat Swab

Nasal Swab

CT Scan of Lungs

Lung Function Test

While You're Here

What To Expect At Your Appointment

If you’re feeling sick and suspect an upper respiratory infection, contact your closest Center for Advanced Wellness today. We can set you up with an appointment as soon as possible. You will then need to confirm your appointment, check-in, and arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Answering Your Questions

Questions About Upper Respiratory Infections

Do I need insurance to be treated for an upper respiratory infection?

A lack of insurance shouldn’t stop you from getting the medical care you need. That’s why we accept patients with and without insurance.

How much does an upper respiratory exam cost?

It depends on your insurance and membership status. If you have insurance, your cost will depend on your coverage. If you don’t have insurance or your deductible is simply too high, consider our membership plans. Options start at $50 per month for adults and bring your copays at our clinic to just $10.

Do I need antibiotics for my upper respiratory infection?

Antibiotics are only useful against bacterial infections. If your healthcare provider determines that your infection is caused by a virus instead, they will not prescribe antibiotics. Not only would that medicine not help, it could hurt you in the long run. You would have to deal with some of the potential side effects of antibiotics, such as diarrhea. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them can also lead to antibiotic resistance.

Is an upper respiratory infection contagious?

Yes, most upper respiratory infections are highly contagious. Make sure to take proper precautions if you or someone you know has an upper respiratory infection.