Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections, like the common cold, affect millions of Americans each year. Thankfully, they often improve with conservative care, such as rest, over-the-counter medication, and drinking plenty of fluids.Also,whether it is Covid 19 or the Flu,at Dovecare, you will be promptly taken care of .Book an online appointment today to get adequate attention and treatment.

What are upper respiratory infections?

An upper respiratory infection occurs in your sinuses, throat, lungs, or airways. These infections are caused by viruses and bacteria and trigger various side effects, like congestion and difficulty breathing.

The Dovecare  team treats several types of upper respiratory infections, including common colds, sinusitis (sinus infections), and pharyngitis (sore throats). 

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections?

Upper respiratory infection symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Cough
• Fever
• Hoarseness
• Red eyes
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

Sometimes, upper respiratory infections cause swollen lymph nodes, a type of swelling that occurs on both sides of the neck.

When should I get a telehealth urgent care appointment for an upper respiratory infection?

Make a telehealth urgent care appointment at Dovecare  if you develop a fever or sore throat that lasts for more than a day or two. That’s particularly true if your symptoms don’t improve with rest and at-home treatments like drinking plenty of fluids and taking over-the-counter (OTC) medication.

How are upper respiratory infections diagnosed?

Your Dovecare  provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started and if they’re getting worse. Next, they conduct a telehealth exam. Your provider asks you to point your web camera at your eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

Often, these steps are enough to make a diagnosis. But if your provider suspects a more serious infection, like strep throat or sinusitis, they might ask you to visit a nearby lab or clinic for specialized tests, like a throat swab, nasal swab, or chest X-ray. 

How are upper respiratory infections treated?

The Dovecare  team treats upper respiratory infections using a patient-centered approach. They could suggest:

• Getting plenty of rest
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers and/or decongestants
• Gargling with warm salt water (if you have a sore throat)
• Drinking plenty of fluids, including electrolyte beverages 
• Isolating from loved ones to avoid spreading the infection

If you have a bacterial infection, like strep throat, your provider prescribes antibiotics. Make sure to take the full course of antibiotics. Stopping beforehand might cause the infection to come back. 

Can upper respiratory infections be prevented?

You can significantly reduce your risk of an upper respiratory infection by practicing good hygiene. The Dovecare  team recommends washing your hands throughout the day, covering your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Good habits like these can help keep germs at bay.

Book your appointment online today to schedule a telemedicine appointment for an upper respiratory infection.