Upper Respiratory Infections

Coughing, runny nose, and a sore throat are common symptoms of upper respiratory infections. Though not always a serious health concern, these infections can cause lingering symptoms or spread to your lungs. At Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC in Cookeville, Gainesboro, Crossville, and Sparta, Tennessee, the team specializes in diagnosing and treating upper respiratory infections. Call the office nearest your or schedule an appointment online today. Telemedicine appointments are available.

What are upper respiratory infections?

Upper respiratory infections are illnesses that affect the upper part of your respiratory system, including your nose, throat, and sinuses.

Types of upper respiratory infections include:

• Common cold
• Sinusitis (sinus infection)
• Laryngitis (sore throat)

Upper respiratory infections occur when viruses or bacteria enter your upper respiratory system. You may breathe in the germ or touch something with a germ and then touch your nose or mouth.

These types of infections are common and affect people of all ages. Though not always a serious health issue, upper respiratory infections can spread to your lungs and affect breathing.  

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections?

Symptoms of upper respiratory infections range from mild to severe and may depend on the type of germ causing the infection and personal medical history. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include:

• Sore throat
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Facial pain
• Fever
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Postnasal drip
• Laryngitis

These symptoms may last up to two weeks. 

When should I seek medical help for upper respiratory infections?

You should seek medical help from the experts at Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC if your upper respiratory infection symptoms last longer than two weeks or cause difficulty breathing. The team also recommends you come in for care if you have a chronic health condition that puts you at risk of developing a more serious infection, such as asthma or diabetes.

Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC is a group medical practice with a team of health professionals that manage care for all ages and health needs. The practice offers urgent care, sick visits, and telemedicine appointments. 

During your visit, your provider reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. They may also run onsite diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your infection.

What are the treatments for upper respiratory infections?

Upper respiratory infection treatment depends on the cause, severity of symptoms, and medical history. The team at Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC may recommend:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Decongestants

In some cases, the team may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve breathing. The team only prescribes antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection. Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC has an onsite pharmacy for any prescription medication you need.

Your provider may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your symptoms and adjust your plan as needed.

To get relief from your upper respiratory infection, call Cookeville Medical Clinic RHC or schedule an appointment online today.