Upper respiratory infections, commonly known as the common cold, are caused by viruses and typically last from one week to 11 days. If symptoms persist beyond 14 days, a doctor’s visit may be necessary. Laryngitis and sinus infections can develop as complications. Treatment includes rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication, but antibiotics may be necessary in severe cases. The flu is a more serious form of upper respiratory infection that can lead to pneumonia. Home treatment for sinus infections includes steam inhalation and pain relief medication, but a healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics and nasal sprays containing steroids if necessary.
An upper respiratory infection is an infection that develops in the nose and throat and is also known as the common cold. The average upper respiratory infection lasts from one week to 11 days. If symptoms extend beyond 14 days, it may be time to see a doctor to rule out any complications. Upper respiratory infections are caused by one of more than 200 viruses, such as rhinovirus and parainfluenza virus. Symptoms of upper respiratory infection include sore throat, with or without cough, and nasal congestion.
Upper respiratory infections typically resolve on their own, without the need for medical intervention. Symptoms of uncomplicated cases of upper respiratory infections can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Occasionally. A secondary bacterial infection may develop that requires an antibiotic.
People suffering from upper respiratory infections can develop laryngitis or inflammation of the voice box. Laryngitis causes hoarseness and a hoarse voice. In severe cases, the individual may lose their voice completely. People suffering from laryngitis may also experience sore throat, dry throat, difficulty swallowing, and cough. Laryngitis is treated by resting the voice, drinking fluids, and avoiding cigarette smoke.
A more serious form of upper respiratory infection is the flu. The flu virus tends to spread seasonally. The virus spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, sending microscopic droplets flying into the air. Flu symptoms include fatigue, body aches, sore throat, fever, chills, cough and headache. Pneumonia can develop as a complication of the flu.
Upper respiratory infections that persist beyond 10 days can turn into sinus infections. The virus responsible for upper respiratory infection can damage the lining of the sinuses, causing inflammation. Symptoms of a sinus infection include pressure behind the eyes, along the nose, on the cheeks or on one side of the head. People with sinus infections often experience headaches, bad breath, nasal congestion combined with thick discharge, cough, and fever.
Home treatment for sinus infections includes inhaling steam several times a day, with a steam vaporizer or leaning over a bowel filled with warm water, drinking warm water and tea to thin nasal secretions, and treating pain with painkillers over the counter. – inflammatory drug. If pain persists, you may need to visit a healthcare professional. A healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, as well as a nasal spray that contains steroids to reduce inflammation in the sinuses.
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