Cold, Cough or Fever? Learn the Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections

1. Upper Respiratory Infections (URI): Symptoms and Contagiousness Why is Everyone Getting Sick These Days? Everywhere you go—someone’s coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose. You wake up with a scratchy throat, your nose starts to drip like a tap, and by evening, you’re fighting off fever, body aches, and sheer exhaustion. Sound familiar? You’re likely dealing with an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI). And you’re not alone. Each year, over 600 million people globally are affected by URIs, and in India, these infections are among the top five causes of outpatient visits, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons. But here’s the problem: Most people confuse URIs with the flu, allergies, or even COVID-19. So, what exactly is a URI? How can you tell it apart from other illnesses? And more importantly— when should you worry and see a doctor?

2. It starts with a scratchy throat. Then comes a runny nose, a mild cough, and by evening, you are curled up with a fever and body ache. Sound familiar? That is what a typical upper respiratory infection (URI) feels like. It is one of the most common illnesses people experience, especially during season changes, monsoons, or winters. In India, millions of children and adults suffer from these infections every year, but most people do not fully understand what it really is. What is an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)? An upper respiratory infection is an infection that affects the upper parts of your breathing system. These include the nose, throat, sinuses, and sometimes even the ears and voice box. This type of infection is usually caused by viruses and is commonly referred to as the common cold. But it can also include conditions like: Pharyngitis – Inflammation of the throat Sinusitis – Infection in the sinuses Laryngitis – Inflammation of the voice box Tonsillitis – Swelling of the tonsils URIs are usually not dangerous and go away on their own in a few days, but they can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications if ignored—especially in young children, the elderly, or people with asthma and low immunity. How Do Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) Spread? URIs are very contagious and spread easily from one person to another, especially in crowded places like schools, offices, buses, and marketplaces. The most common ways URIs spread are: Through air: When a person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, tiny virus-filled droplets are released into the air. If you breathe in those droplets, you can get infected. By touch: The viruses can live on surfaces like door handles, phones, and railings. If you touch these surfaces and then touch your nose, eyes, or mouth, you may get infected.

3. This is why doctors recommend regular hand washing, wearing masks in public, and avoiding close contact with sick people. Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) The symptoms of URIs vary slightly depending on whether you have a cold, throat infection, or sinus infection. However, most people experience a combination of these: Sore Throat Runny or Stuffy Nose Mild Fever Dry or Wet Cough Headache and Facial Pressure Tiredness and Weakness Diagnosis of Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) Diagnosing an upper respiratory infection (URI) is primarily based on clinical evaluation, but in some cases, additional tests may be used to rule out complications or other conditions. Here's how it's typically done: Clinical History Symptoms: Such as runny nose, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, sneezing, headache, and fever. Duration: Most viral URIs last 5–10 days. Persistent symptoms may suggest a bacterial infection or another condition. Exposure history: Recent contact with someone who had a cold or flu, or seasonal occurrence. Physical Examination Check the throat: Redness, swelling, or white patches may indicate pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Examine the ears and nose: To look for signs of otitis media or sinusitis.

4. Listen to the chest: To rule out lower respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia. When to See a Doctor for Upper Respiratory Infections? While most upper respiratory infections can be treated at home, it is important to know when it is time to seek medical attention. You should visit a doctor if you or your child experience: High or Prolonged Fever If your fever lasts more than three days or goes above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, you need medical advice. Persistent fever may be a sign of a more serious infection. Breathing Difficulty Shortness of breath, wheezing, or rapid breathing should never be ignored. It could signal bronchitis, pneumonia, or even asthma-related complications. Persistent Cough If the cough continues beyond 10 days or becomes painful, consult a doctor. It might not be just a viral infection anymore. Surgical Management of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI): Surgery is rarely required for URTIs as they are usually caused by viruses and resolve with medical treatment. However, in select chronic or complicated cases, the following surgical options may be considered: Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS):This procedure is done in cases of chronic sinusitis unresponsive to medical therapy, helping to restore normal sinus drainage. Preventing Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) You cannot always avoid viruses, but you can reduce your risk of catching or spreading them:

5. Wash hands with soap and water regularly Wear a mask in crowded places or during cold seasons Avoid sharing utensils or close contact when someone is sick Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing Eat nutritious food to support your immune system What’s New in Upper Respiratory Tract Management? Doctors/pulmonologists in India are increasingly using: Teleconsultations for early diagnosis and advice Rapid diagnostic kits to rule out COVID-19 and flu Respiratory care clinics in hospitals like Artemis for specialized care Vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcus for high-risk groups These advances help reduce complications and ensure faster recovery. Article By Dr. Arun Chowdary Kotaru Unit Head & Sr. Consultant - Pulmonology (Chest & Lungs) Artemis Hospitals Reference:- https://www.artemishospitals.com/blog/upper-respiratory-infections-uri-symptoms-and- contagiousness