menu Upper respiratory infection What is an upper respiratory infection? What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections? Upper respiratory infections can last from 3 to 14 days, though most clear up within 7 to 10 days. URIs occur most frequently during the fall and winter months; however, it is not uncommon to catch one during spring or summer as well. Symptoms commonly include the following: Upper respiratory congestion Nasal discharge Low-grade fever Fatigue Headache Pain while swallowing Pressure in the face around the sinus area Wheezing How are upper respiratory infections prevented? Upper respiratory infections are highly contagious and can be spread by close contact with an infected person or by coughing and sneezing. Healthy hand hygiene through regular handwashing with soap and warm water is one of the most effective ways to prevent infections and the spread of germs. Respiratory infections can also be prevented by: Avoiding contact with anyone who has an upper respiratory infection; Regularly wiping down commonly touched surfaces, like doorknobs, with disinfectant wipes; Covering your mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing; and Not smoking or vaping. For more tips on preventing the common cold, see our blog here. Most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses and clear up on their own in 7 to 10 days. Unfortunately, antibiotics are not effective for viral URIs. The symptoms, however, can be treated with over-the-counter medications, though it’s best to use medications sparingly to avoid side effects. In particular, over-the-counter medications do not improve symptoms in children under 6 years of age, so should not be given to them for upper respiratory infections. It is also important to stay hydrated and use a vaporizer to help clear breathing passages. If symptoms do not clear up on their own after a week or worsen, you should see a physician. In some cases, an upper respiratory infection can progress to a bacterial infection of the sinuses, ear(s), or lungs. If your physician suspects your viral upper respiratory infection has progressed to a bacterial infection, he or she may order additional testing or recommend treatment with antibiotics. If you wish to see a physician, you can come into any Patient First center from 8 a.m. to 8 pm any day of the week - no appointment needed. FIND YOUR NEAREST CENTER Favorite a center and gain access to hours right here. Find your center FIND YOUR PREFERRED PHYSICIAN AT PATIENT FIRST Favorite a physician to have their schedule displayed on the homepage for you. Find your Patient First physician Urgent Care Telehealth Primary Care Occupational Health Illnesses Injuries Immunizations Physicals Women's Services Travel Services Connect with Us Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn 5000 Cox Road Richmond, VA 23060 Richmond 804-968-5700 Toll Free 800-447-8588 Fax 804-968-5725 Contact Us Patient Portal About Us Make a Payment Community Your Privacy Careers FAQ & Resources Contact Us Notice of Nondiscrimination Translation Disclaimer Accredited by National Urgent Care Center Accreditation ©2021 PatientFirst. All Rights Reserved. Terms Of Use Privacy Statement Employee Login English