5 Top Facts about Upper Respiratory Infections

As the name suggests, an upper respiratory infection affects the upper part of the respiratory system. The respiratory system is the are of the human body where breathing happens and includes the lungs, throat and the sinuses. An infection here can trigger a very wide range of symptoms, from a runny nose to a sore throat and a cough. Most of us will experience an upper respiratory infection at some point in our lives - so here are the top 5 facts that you need to know.

1. Upper vs lower respiratory infections. Respiratory infections come in two types - upper and lower - and the type that you have will depend on the areas of the body that are most affected. A lower respiratory infection will have an impact on the airways and the lungs - this can be a longer lasting infection that is more serious, something like bronchitis, pneumonia or a chest infection. An upper respiratory infection affects the sinuses and the throat and could be a common cold, laryngitis or sinusitis, for example.
2. This type of infection is either viral or bacterial. An upper respiratory infection will either be caused by a virus entering your body or as a result of bacteria that enters your system from the outside. For example, if you touch your nose or mouth with unwashed hands you can transfer bacteria or a virus into your own system.
3. Upper respiratory infections are contagious. If you have an upper respiratory infection then you can easily pass this to others. This usually happens via sneezing and coughing - infected droplets of your bodily fluid are released into the air if you sneeze or cough without covering your mouth and can infect others. If you do cover your mouth with your hand and then don’t wash it you can also infect other people by touching them.
4. Most upper respiratory infections will go away on their own. If you get an infection like this you can expect it to last for a week or two. However, it should clear up with plenty of fluids and rest. You can also take over-the-counter medication, such as paracetamol, for headaches etc. Some of the symptoms of this type of infection include a sore throat, runny nose, red eyes, cough, fever, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes.
5. Sometimes it’s necessary to get medical help. For example, if an upper respiratory infection goes on for longer than two weeks you’ll need to see a medical practitioner. You should also seek help if you experience difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, a high fever, wheezing, a rash or severe coughing that may or may not also trigger vomiting. You will be given a physical exam and there are various tests that can also be carried out, such as a throat swab and a lung CT scan. Remember that most upper respiratory infections are caused by a virus and viruses don't respond to antibiotics so these are unlikely to be offered as treatment.

As we go into winter, upper respiratory infections become more common - these are the top 5 things you need to know about them.

Harley Street is the UK's foremost private medical centre which is dedicated to providing high-quality care for your ear, nose, throat, head & neck, and balance-related disorders. Find out more information on how Harley Street ENT can help you here.