The upper respiratory tract includes the mouth, nose, throat, larynx (voice box), and trachea (windpipe). Upper respiratory infections are often referred to as "colds."
- Stuffiness (nasal congestion)
- Runny nose
- Low grade fever
- Post-nasal drip
- Cough
- Sinusitis symptoms
- Fullness in the face
- Increased nasal drainage
- Occasionally pain
- Fever
- Inflammation of larynx
The diagnosis of a cold or upper respiratory infection is usually made by history and physical examination. The health care practitioner may ask questions in regard to the onset and duration of symptoms. The physical examination may concentrate on the head, neck, and lungs.
· Examination of the ears
· Nasal examination
· Throat examination
· Palpitate Neck
· Check lymph nodes for infection and inflammation
· Auscultate chest
Imaging and testing
A rapid strep test or throat swab
Plain X-rays of the sinus structures
CT scan of the sinuses
Medications are usually not prescribed for upper respiratory infections. Antibiotics are not effective in fighting viral infections. However, antibiotics are appropriate if the health care practitioner suspects that a bacterial infection exists, for example in cases of otitis media, bacterial sinusitis, and strep throat.
