What Are Upper Respiratory Infections?

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is an infection of your upper respiratory tract -- nose, throat, pharynx, larynx and bronchi. Every year, adults have an average of 2 to 3 colds, while children have even more.

Causes Of Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections occur when a virus enters the body, usually through the mouth or nose.

"An upper respiratory infection is also called the 'common cold' and there are over 200 subtypes of viruses that can cause them," said Allison Massey, PA-C, physician assistant specialist at Franciscan ExpressCare in Greenwood.

Droplets of infected saliva and mucus spray out into the air when a person sneezes or coughs. People then either breathe them in, or touch a surface where they landed.

Symptoms Of An Upper Respiratory Infection

The most common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include:

• Coughing
• Discomfort in the nasal passages
• Mild fever, which is more common in children
• Excess mucus
• Nasal congestion
• Pain or pressure behind the face
• A runny nose
• A scratchy or sore throat
• Sneezing

Less common symptoms of upper respiratory infections can include:

• Bad breath
• Body aches
• Headache
• Hyposmia, or the loss of sense of smell
• Itchy eyes

"You may need to see your doctor if you develop a fever later in the illness, trouble breathing, severe ear pain or if you develop worsening or persistent symptoms," said Massey.

Are Upper Respiratory Infections Contagious?

Yes, upper respiratory infections are contagious.

"URI can be spread by being in close contact or direct contact with an infected person. It can also be spread by droplets in the air from an infected person who has coughed or sneezed. These viruses can also be spread by touching a contaminated surface," said Massey. "Hand washing is so important!"

Certain people are at greater risk of exposure such as children, those with a history of heart or lung issues, and people with a weak immune system.

Do Antibiotics Treat Upper Respiratory Infections?

An upper respiratory infection is not treated with antibiotics.

"Viruses are usually self-limited and improve with time and supportive care," said Massey.

Treatment for upper respiratory infections generally involves ways to limit discomfort. These tips may help reduce the severity or duration of the symptoms:

• Apply petroleum jelly to sore areas, which may include the lips and nostrils
• Avoid smoky or fume-filled areas
• Avoid steep temperature changes
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Increase indoor humidity
• Rest as much as possible
• Use soft tissues when blowing the nose.

At-home Treatments

At-home remedies that may help relieve upper respiratory infection symptoms include:

• Echinacea
• Garlic, especially when raw
• Honey, especially in hot ginger or lemon tea
• Lemon juice and lemon tea
• Root ginger in hot water

"Rest, increased hydration, and over-the-counter medications for cough and congestion can also help alleviate symptoms," said Massey.

When Should I Expect To Feel Better?

A viral upper respiratory infection typically lasts between 3-10 days, but symptoms can linger up to 14 days. "The worst symptoms will be present the first few days then will gradually improve," said Massey.

Pneumonia And Upper Respiratory Infections

It is possible for an upper respiratory infection to turn into pneumonia.

"If you develop new fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, or worsening or persistent cough you should be seen in clinic or ER as this could be concerning for pneumonia," said Massey.

Preventing Upper Respiratory Infections

The best protection against upper respiratory infections is frequent handwashing with soap and water. Washing your hands reduces exposure to secretions that can spread infection. To further prevent chances of exposure:

• Avoid being in close contact with people who are sick.
• Wipe down objects such as remote controls, phones, and doorknobs that may be touched by people in the house who have an upper respiratory infection.
• Cover your mouth and nose if you’re the one infected.
• Stay home if you’re sick.