SERVICES

Upper Respiratory Infection

Upper respiratory infections can cause congestion, coughing, and throat discomfort that make it difficult to work, sleep, or manage daily activities. NP Healthcare Group’s Dr Nichola Patton, DNP, MSN, MBA, AGACNP-BC, and Angel Cejo Vaquer, NP, provide prompt virtual assessments and personalized treatment for uncomplicated respiratory symptoms. Call NP Healthcare Group today or book an appointment online for effective upper respiratory infection treatment.



Upper Respiratory Infection FAQ's

What is an upper respiratory infection?


An upper respiratory infection affects your nose, sinuses, throat, and/or voice box. Most develop because of a virus and resolve as the immune system clears the infection.


The common cold causes many upper respiratory infections, but influenza, COVID-19, and other viruses can produce similar symptoms. Bacteria cause some infections, including strep throat and certain cases of sinusitis.


What symptoms can an upper respiratory infection cause?


Upper respiratory infection symptoms vary according to the affected area and the cause. Common signs include:


  • A runny or stuffy nose
  • Sneezing
  • A sore or scratchy throat
  • Coughing
  • Headaches
  • Mild body aches
  • Fatigue
  • A low-grade fever
  • Hoarseness
  • Swollen lymph nodes

Mucus may become thicker or change color during an infection. This change doesn’t automatically indicate a bacterial illness or mean that you need antibiotics.


Can a virtual provider diagnose my upper respiratory infection?


Telehealth suits many mild-to-moderate upper respiratory infections. During a secure video appointment, your NP Healthcare Group provider asks when your symptoms started, how they’ve changed, and whether you have a fever, breathing difficulties, or underlying health conditions.


Your provider may ask you to take your temperature or describe your breathing and cough. They also consider whether testing for COVID-19, influenza, or strep throat would help guide treatment.


If you need a physical examination, chest X-ray, or other in-person test, the team directs you to appropriate local care.


NP Healthcare Group offers same-day appointments and typically sees patients within five minutes of their scheduled time. This rapid access can prove particularly helpful when symptoms develop suddenly.


How are upper respiratory infections treated?


Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while your body fights the infection. Your care plan may include:


  • Rest and increased fluid intake
  • Saline nasal spray
  • Medication for pain or fever
  • Treatments for congestion
  • Cough relief
  • Antiviral medication when clinically appropriate

Antibiotics don’t treat viral infections. Your provider only recommends them when your symptoms and assessment indicate a bacterial infection.


When should I seek urgent in-person care?


Seek urgent medical attention if you develop breathing difficulties, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or face, severe weakness, or signs of dehydration. You may also require in-person care if your symptoms worsen after initially improving or persist longer than expected.


Call NP Healthcare Group or book a same-day virtual appointment online for convenient, compassionate care for upper respiratory infection symptoms.