Upper Respiratory Conditions

What are upper respiratory conditions?

Upper respiratory conditions are infections and illnesses that affect the upper respiratory system. Examples of such infections and illnesses include:

• The common cold
• Sinusitis
• Rhinitis
• Laryngitis
• Tracheitis 
• Mild influenza

The upper respiratory system includes the:

Nose and nasal cavity

Inside the nose, the nasal cavity has a lining consisting of a sticky mucous membrane and little hairs called cilia. The membrane lining catches dust particles, while the cilia help move those dust particles out towards the nose, where you can sneeze or blow them out.

Sinuses

The sinuses are air-filled spaces that radiate out from the nose. They help lighten the weight of the skull.

Pharynx

The pharynx is a cavity behind the mouth and nasal cavity. It facilitates the passage of air and food into the body. It also impacts speech.

Larynx

The larynx, also known as the voicebox, connects the throat to the windpipe and allows you to speak and sing. 

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections?

Symptoms of upper respiratory infections vary, but they generally include issues like:

• Nasal congestion
• Nasal discharge
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Fever
• A scratchy or sore throat

Other symptoms may include headache, achy muscles, and fatigue or lethargy.

You’re at a higher risk for upper respiratory conditions if you don’t wash your hands regularly, if you come into close contact with a sick person, and if you regularly spend time around groups of children.

When should I see a doctor for my upper respiratory condition?

Often, with rest and fluid intake, you can ride out an upper respiratory condition at home. However, sometimes, upper respiratory conditions are more serious.

Sometimes, your upper respiratory infection isn’t a cold that you can ride out, but rather an allergy a doctor can treat, or a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics or steroids to open up your passages.

If this is the case, you need to seek a diagnosis and treatment from Physicians Medical Urgent Care.

If you’re on the fence, consider if you have:

• Symptoms lasting longer than two weeks
• Trouble breathing
• Severe and/or worsening symptoms
• Difficulty swallowing
• A recurring upper respiratory infection

If any of these scenarios ring true for you, schedule a visit to Physicians Medical Urgent Care to get checked out. 

Don’t spend one more day in misery. To connect with the kind and compassionate team at Physicians Medical Urgent Care, reach out over the phone or via the online booking tool today. Walk-ins are also welcome.