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Upper Respiratory Infections

An upper respiratory infection affects the upper part of your respiratory system, including your sinuses and throat. Upper respiratory infection symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat and cough. 

Upper respiratory infections include:

  • Common cold.
  • Epiglottitis (swelling of the trachea).
  • Laryngitis (lose your voice).
  • Pharyngitis (sore throat).
  • Sinusitis (sinus infection).
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Causes

Upper respiratory infection are caused when a virus (or bacteria) enters your respiratory system, like touching an infected surface or shaking hands with a person who’s sick. You then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes. The germs from your hands enter and infect your body.

Symptoms

  • Cough.
  • Fever.
  • Hoarse voice.
  • Fatigue and lack of energy.
  • Red eyes.
  • Runny nose.
  • Sore throat.
  • Swollen lymph nodes (swelling on the sides of your neck).

Treatment

Upper respiratory infections typically last one to two weeks. Most of the time, they go away on their own. Over-the-counter medications can help you feel better. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

 

Should I go to Indigo?

If your symptoms last longer than two weeks, Indigo can diagnose your symptoms and recommend treatment. 

If you are having any of the following symptoms, visit your nearest emergency department:

  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Fever of 103 degrees or higher.
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing.
  • Frequent, severe coughing, which may come with vomiting.
  • Wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe out.
  • Dizziness.

How can we help?