Upper Respiratory Infections

For most people, upper respiratory infections like colds are an unpleasant nuisance, but for some, these disorders are far more severe. At offices in the Navy Hill and Williamsburg neighborhoods of Brooklyn, New York, Tru Medical Management’s board-certified physicians diagnose your infection using the on-site lab facilities. They also offer effective treatments to help you feel better and prevent complications. If you develop upper respiratory infection symptoms, call the nearest Tru Medical Management office and request an in-person or telemedicine visit, go online to book an appointment, or simply visit the walk-in clinic today.

What are upper respiratory infections?

Upper respiratory infections are diseases affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses (upper respiratory tract). Common upper respiratory infections include:

• Colds
• Flu
• Strep throat
• Sinus infections
• Laryngitis
• Pharyngitis
• Tonsillitis

Upper respiratory infections develop when bacteria or viruses enter your nose or mouth. You might breathe these germs in or pick them up when you touch something and then touch your face.

Upper respiratory infections are among the most widespread acute illnesses, affecting people of all ages.

What symptoms do upper respiratory infections cause?

Upper respiratory infection symptoms typically include:

• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Facial pain
• Postnasal drip

These symptoms range from mild to severe, according to the type of infection and factors like your general health and age. In most cases, symptoms clear up within two weeks. 

Do upper respiratory infections require medical attention?

In most healthy people, upper respiratory infections don’t require medical treatment. They usually resolve themselves quite quickly thanks to your immune system, which identifies the invading organism and creates antibodies to destroy it.

However, sometimes an infection can spread into the lungs (lower respiratory tract), causing problems such as bronchitis, pleurisy, or pneumonia. Colds and flu can also cause chronic sinusitis, where inflammation in the facial sinuses persists for months.

Anyone vulnerable to these complications could benefit from seeing their health care provider earlier. This includes older people, those with immune system problems or who take medication that reduces their natural ability to overcome infections, and anyone with respiratory disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What treatments are available for upper respiratory infections?

The treatment you need for an upper respiratory infection depends on its cause and severity and your medical history. Healthy people recover well with rest and home care, supplemented by over-the-counter medicines like painkillers and decongestants.

If you have a bacterial infection, antibiotics can cure it, but you must complete the course even if you feel better. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses like colds and flu, though. If your symptoms are severe or you’re vulnerable, you might benefit from antiviral medication.

Your Tru Medical Management provider can also perform respiratory screenings using spirometry to help identify any breathing problems caused by an infection. If necessary, they can prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve your breathing. Your provider can also give you a flu and/or pneumonia jab to prevent infection.

If you have distressing upper respiratory infection symptoms, call Tru Medical Management today to arrange an in-person or telemedicine sick visit or go to the walk-in clinic. You can also book an appointment online.