An upper respiratory tract infection is a common ailment affecting your nose, throat, sinuses or any other part of the respiratory system from the larynx (voice box) upward.

A variety of viruses and bacteria — generally the same ones that cause the flu and common cold — can cause upper respiratory infections. The virus or bacteria enters your body typically through the mouth or nose, either when you inhale infected respiratory secretions in droplets from someone else’s cough or sneeze, or through other direct contact. The virus or bacteria also can be transferred from your hands.

Viruses are responsible for millions of respiratory illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Respiratory viruses include those that cause COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus.

Rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms and aid in a faster recovery. Individual factors such as overall health, immune function and the cause of a viral infection can influence how long your symptoms typically last.

Upper respiratory infections include the common cold, strep throat, laryngitis and sinusitis or sinus infection. While it’s not within part of the respiratory tract, a middle ear infection is typically related. Common upper respiratory infection symptoms include sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion and cough.

Mild cases may resolve within a week, while more severe infections or those caused by certain viruses may linger longer.

If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen, contact a health care provider. If you have a viral infection, antibiotics won’t help. A bacterial infection, such as strep throat, will respond to antibiotics.

Norton Now includes same-day care options so you can get the care you need, when you need it and where you need it. Norton Community Medical Associates primary care offices are located across Louisville, Southern Indiana and beyond. Save your spot in line at a Norton Immediate Care Center or visit a Norton Prompt Care clinic for treatment of minor injuries or illnesses.

Use Norton eCare video visits or just answer a few questions online from anywhere in Kentucky or Indiana for care without coming into the office. Your provider can arrange for a cholesterol blood test or order drive-thru lab testing for you at Norton Healthcare Express Services.

How to Avoid Catching or Spreading an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

• If you are sick, cover your cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow to limit the spray of respiratory droplets.
• Practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with those who are sick or those who are at risk for complications, such as people with weakened immune systems, those who are undergoing chemotherapy or those with chronic conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Smoking compromises the respiratory system’s defenses, making smokers more susceptible.

Treatment

Determining the cause of your upper respiratory infection is key to treatment. Most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses and will clear up without prescription medication.

A viral infection, including the common cold, won’t respond to antibiotics. Antiviral medications can help some viral infections. Ribavirin, for example, has been approved to treat respiratory syncytial virus in infants and young children. A number of antiviral medications are available to fight the influenza virus.

A viral infection can linger long enough that the congestion and fluids in the respiratory tract allow a bacterial infection to develop, making antibiotic use a potential treatment.

Common home remedies to help alleviate symptoms include:

• Rest: Allow your body to recover by getting plenty of rest.
• Hydration: Drink fluids like water, herbal teas and broth to stay hydrated and help soothe a sore throat.
• Increasing humidity: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can ease nasal congestion and throat irritation.
• Warm saltwater gargle: Gargling with warm saltwater can relieve throat discomfort.
• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help ease congestion.
• Over-the-counter medications: Nonprescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) can help reduce fever and relieve pain.
• Honey and lemon: Mix honey and lemon in warm water or tea to soothe a sore throat and provide relief.
• Nasal saline drops: These drops or sprays can help ease nasal congestion.
• Proper nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods to support your immune system.
• Avoid irritants: Stay away from smoke and other irritants that can worsen respiratory symptoms.