Upper respiratory tract infection (URI)
About Upper respiratory tract infection (URI)
An infection of the upper airway that usually lasts 2-4 days. Patients experience low grade fevers, fatigue, nasal congestion or runny nose and a dry cough. Almost always caused by a virus. There are many viruses that cause this infection and they are contagious.Symptoms
Symptoms tend to start with nasal congestion or runny nose and sore throat followed by a cough. The cough is usually dry or it produces small amounts of white clear sputum. The mucous from the runny nose (rhinorrhea) is clear. Fever is present although not as high as with other viral illnesses such as the flu. Muscle aches (myalgias) and headache are common. The headache tends to be mild to moderate in severity.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Occasionally a chest x-ray may be done to rule out pneumonia.Common tests: X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Antibiotics are of no use. Patients are treated for their symptoms with: acetaminophen (Tylenol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn or Aleve), cough medicine, and decongestants.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Upper respiratory tract infection (URI).