About this topic
Germs cause this health problem. You have signs in your nose, windpipe, voice box or larynx, throat, ears, or lungs that last for days or weeks. It often spreads from a person who is sick to some other person from close contact. This health problem may include: ‚
- Sore throat. This is pharyngitis.
- Swelling of the lining of the nose. This is rhinitis.
- Swelling of the sinuses with pain in the face, forehead, or upper teeth. This is sinusitis.
- Swelling of the nose and throat. This is nasopharyngitis.
- Swelling of the upper part of the voice box. This is epiglottitis.
- Swelling of the voice box. This is laryngitis.
- Ear pain. This may be otitis media or an ear infection.
- Cough
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What are the causes?
The main cause is an infection by certain germs. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Cold or winter season
- Low immune system
- Close contact with someone who has an upper respiratory infection
- Allergies or asthma
- Working in a school or day care center
What are the main signs?
- Cough or sneezing
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Tired
- Weakness
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will do an exam and ask about your history. Your doctor will check your nose, throat, and lungs. The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- Throat swab
- Chest x-ray
- CT or MRI scan
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may give you drugs to treat or prevent infection. You may also be given other drugs based on your condition. Talk to your doctor about what drugs you need to take. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
You need to rest while you are getting better. If your throat is sore, dont talk too much. This will rest your voice and throat. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Fight an infection
- Dry up a stuffy nose
- Stop wheezing
- Control coughing
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also work to kill the virus.
- If you are sick, cover your mouth and nose with tissue when you cough or sneeze. You can also cough into your elbow. Throw away tissues in the trash and wash your hands after touching used tissues.
- Do not get too close (kissing, hugging) to people who are sick.
- Do not share towels or hankies with anyone who is sick.
- Stay away from crowded places.
- Get a flu shot each year.
Where can I learn more?
American Family Physician ‚
http://www.aafp.org/afp/topicModules/viewTopicModule.htm?topicModuleId=29 ‚
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/antibiotic-use/URI/index.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚