What is an upper respiratory infection? 

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is also called an upper respiratory tract infection. It’s a contagious illness that affects your nose, throat and sinuses. It’s commonly caused by a virus but it can also be caused by bacteria. 

Common types of upper respiratory infections include:

  • Common cold
  • Sinusitis
  • Pharyngitis (sore throat)
  • Laryngitis (voice box inflammation)

Upper Respiratory Infection Symptoms

Upper respiratory infection symptoms vary depending on the cause but often include:

  • Coughing and sneezing
  • Nasal congestion or discharge
  • Throat irritation or hoarseness
  • Low-grade fever
  • General fatigue or body aches

If your symptoms worsen after a few days or last more than 10 days, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection or another condition that needs medical attention. 

Immediate Care for Upper Respiratory Infections

Benefits of a 24/7 urgent care video visit

An Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist provider can manage common upper respiratory symptoms that range from congestion, fatigue, coughing or sneezing right from the comfort of your home to help you get better faster. Benefits include:

  • Care available for all ages, 24/7
  • No appointment needed
  • Prescriptions, if recommended

You can start a 24/7 urgent care video visit now.

Currently a patient? Consider an eVisit or scheduled virtual care visit

If you already have an Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist primary care or virtual primary care provider, you can also get care and relief for your URI symptoms through an eVisit or scheduled virtual care visit. 

To start an eVisit, go to MyAtriumHealth and complete our online Symptom Checker and your provider can diagnose your condition and determine the care you need.

Try Symptom Checker to see if an eVisit is right for you.

If you prefer to see your regular in-person primary care provider or virtual primary care provider, you can use MyAtriumHealth to schedule a video visit. 

Learn more about virtual primary care and find a doctor.

Upper Respiratory Infection Causes

Upper respiratory infections are usually caused by viruses:

  • Rhinovirus (common cold)
  • Influenza virus
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Adenovirus

They can also be caused by bacteria, especially in more severe illnesses such as strep throat or sinus infections.

How long is an upper respiratory infection contagious?

Most upper respiratory infections are highly contagious, especially in the first few days. You can spread it through coughing, sneezing or touching shared surfaces. On average, an upper respiratory infection can be contagious for three to 10 days. 

Upper Respiratory Infection Diagnosis 

Most URIs can be diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a throat swab or nasal swab to identify the virus or bacteria causing the infection. 

Upper Respiratory Infection Treatment 

There’s no cure for most viral URIs. Instead, treatments focus on relieving symptoms and may include: 

  • Rest and hydration 
  • Humidifiers or saline sprays 
  • Over-the-counter medications for pain, fever or congestion 
  • Prescription antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed