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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Upper respiratory infection (URI)

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is an infection of the nose, sinuses, or throat. Examples of URIs include colds, influenza (flu), and sinusitis. Common symptoms are a runny or stuffy nose and a cough.

Most URIs can be treated with home care. This may include drinking lots of fluids and taking over-the-counter pain medicine. Most people feel better in 4 to 10 days.

If a doctor suspects that a URI is caused by bacteria, antibiotics are prescribed. But almost all URIs are caused by viruses. Antibiotics don't kill viruses, so they won't help cure a viral infection.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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