Upper respiratory tract infections are irritation and swelling that affect the upper part of your respiratory system, including your sinuses and throat. There are several types of upper respiratory infections, and effective treatment depends on the source of the infection.
Both viruses and bacteria can be the cause of an upper respiratory infection. They enter your system through the air, like from someone coughing or sneezing, or through touching infected surfaces.
In most cases, professional medical help isn’t needed because if symptoms get bothersome, over-the-counter decongestants and other products can often provide the necessary relief.
However, if you’re experiencing the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, and you’d like some professional medical help with diagnosing and treating it, WellNow can assist you.
Sometimes called a URI, an upper respiratory infection can come with several symptoms
including:
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Sinus pain
• Sore throat
Using their medical expertise and our onsite lab testing capabilities as needed, our providers will examine you to see if your infection was caused by a virus (like the common cold) or bacteria.
Antibiotics can be useful for fighting bacterial infections, while the usual course of action for viral infections is to treat their symptoms and wait for the body to fight off the infection. In other words — we can find a way to help you feel better faster.
We are prepared to help when your infection has lasted too long, your symptoms are interfering with your daily routine or you simply want some relief. Check in online or walk in to a WellNow location nearest you.
This medical information has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer for WellNow Urgent Care.
WellNow Urgent Care treats a variety of illnesses, infections and diseases along with their
associated symptoms. If you are feeling uncomfortable or unwell, our dedicated medical
team is prepared to deliver a personalized and tailored treatment plan to help you get
better, faster.
This list contains our most commonly treated illnesses and symptoms. If you are
experiencing an illness not listed or are unsure of the source of your discomfort, visit a
WellNow location near you or start a virtual care session.