Many people consider an upper respiratory infection (URI) and acommon coldto be the same condition.
Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of URIs.
Parents should not hesitate to consult expert medical help for any symptoms that seem atypical or worrisome.
Verywell / JR Bee
Are URIs Serious?
There are a few exceptions, however.
Strep throat can have serious complications if left untreated.
Rarely, URIs can progress to more serious conditions such asepiglottis.
This is more likely in small children.
Synagis and Beyfortus are not vaccines and cannot cure or treat a child diagnosed with RSV.
Most URIs are because of rhinovirus and can be managed at home.
A diagnosis of an upper respiratory infection is usually not complicated.
If strep throat is suspected, a rapid strep test or a throat culture will be obtained.
This involves swabbing the back of your throat and then testing it for strep bacteria.
Occasionally, cultures from the nasal passageways may be taken and tested for a bacterial infection.
In some cases, other tests may be ordered to rule out conditions that causesimilar symptomssuch as allergies.
Treatment
URIs because of a virus can usually be managed at home.
People with healthy immune systems can fight the virus off within a week or two.
There are a variety of ways you’re free to help your recovery and to treat bothersome symptoms.
In addition, you may also consider saline nasal sprays or nasal irrigation with aneti pot.
Talk to your pediatrician before using them.
Over-the-counter upper respiratory infection medications for kids should be discussed thoroughly with and approved by your child’s pediatrician.
Rest
If possible, do not attend work or school to avoid spreading illness.
Additionally, keeping your head elevated can help with congestion and earaches.
If you are prescribed an antibiotic, see to it you take it exactly as prescribed.
Most bacterial infections start to respond to an appropriate antibiotic within 24 hours.
Antibiotics may cause stomach problems including diarrhea.
People who are sick should stay at home and avoid public places whenever possible.
Unfortunately, except for influenza, vaccines for most causes of URI havent been developed.
It’s crucial to get rest and stay home from activities when possible.
If your symptoms worsen, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.
Though most URIs are not a cause for concern, symptoms can sometimes lead to more severe conditions.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection.
