Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) Treatment Doctor

Symptoms of a URI can range from a runny nose, nasal congestion, cough, and sore throat to sneezing. URIs are mostly mild and resolve on their own, some cases are more complicated, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, particularly in people with compromised immune systems or chronic heart or lung disease.

Being contagious, URIs can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets from an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces. These droplets spread in air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and can contaminate objects like doorknobs and countertops.

Although there’s no cure for a URI, we can help to relieve the symptoms with over-the-counter medications and, home remedies like drinking plenty of fluids and getting rest. In some cases, our doctors may prescribe antibiotics if the URI is caused by a bacterial infection.

We strongly advocate for prevention in reducing the spread of URIs. Regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and practicing good cough and sneeze etiquette are all important preventative measures. We also provide vaccinations for some pathogens that cause URIs, including influenza and some types of pneumonia.

Our team is also aware that URIs are not exclusively viral; they can also be triggered by bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. If your immune system is compromised, bacteria present in your nose and throat may overcome your body’s defenses and cause a bacterial URI.

Furthermore, allergens and irritants such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and smoke can cause an allergic reaction in the upper respiratory tract. These reactions can mimic the symptoms of a URI, causing congestion, sneezing, and a sore throat.

We also provide education on specific risk factors that can increase susceptibility to URIs, including a weakened immune system, proximity to sick individuals, and exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke. While URIs are most prevalent during fall and winter, we are prepared to treat these infections year-round.

A scratchy or sore throat, resulting from inflammation, is often one of the first signs of a URI. This can cause discomfort and difficulty swallowing, ranging from mild irritation to severe pain. Our experienced team can provide effective treatment options to alleviate these symptoms.

A URI can also cause nasal issues including a runny or stuffy nose, making breathing difficult. The nasal discharge color may vary and sneezing, due to irritation of the nasal passages, is common. We can provide remedies to ease nasal discomfort and help you breathe easier.

Coughing, caused by irritation of the airways, is another symptom that we can help manage. Whether your cough is dry or productive, meaning it comes with mucus, our healthcare professionals can provide the right treatment to soothe your cough.

A common symptom of a URI is fatigue. You may also experience headaches, body aches, a low-grade fever, loss of appetite, and in some cases, nausea and vomiting. At Cermak and NewMed Immediate Care, we offer comprehensive care.

The duration of a URI varies with the specific virus involved and the overall health of the individual. In most cases, URIs resolve within one to two weeks, with symptoms peaking around the 2nd or 3rd day and gradually improving over the next three to seven days. However, in specific groups like adults, children over age 2, infants, and young children, URIs can last from 7-10 days to two weeks respectively.

Patients with underlying respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD might experience lingering symptoms such as cough or congestion for several weeks after the infection. Similarly, a URI can last longer in individuals with weakened immune systems, like the elderly or those with chronic illnesses. There is also a possibility for complications like a secondary bacterial infection, which can extend the illness duration.

If your URI lasts longer than two weeks or if symptoms persist for more than 10 days, it may signal a more serious condition like sinusitis or pneumonia. In these cases, we recommend seeking medical attention. Severe symptoms such as high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting also warrant immediate medical care.

Please remember, even if your URI symptoms disappear after a week or two, the virus can still be present in the body and can be contagious to others for up to two weeks.

In conclusion, while an average URI usually lasts one to two weeks, the duration can be longer in some individuals, and any worsening or persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to Cermak or NewMed Immediate Care.

Get the relief you need with expert treatment for upper respiratory infections at our trusted clinics. Trust our board-certified doctors to provide the care you need for a speedy recovery. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Cicero IL, Austin, Berwyn Chicago IL, Chicago IL, River North Chicago IL, Englewood Chicago IL, Hoffman Estates IL, Bloomingdale IL, Hanover Park IL, Rolling Meadows IL, Williamsburg Rolling Meadows IL, Mt Prospect IL, and surrounding areas.surrounding areas.