Upper Respiratory Conditions

Upper respiratory conditions, like sinus infections, can make you feel terrible. Fortunately, Urgent CareX can help you recover faster. If you have a sore throat, runny nose, cough, or other uncomfortable upper respiratory issues, call the Denver or Colorado Springs, Colorado office or use the online scheduling link to get expert help today.

What are upper respiratory conditions?

Upper respiratory conditions are infections and other illnesses affecting the upper respiratory tract. That includes the nose, sinuses, mouth, throat, and voice box.

Some common examples of upper respiratory conditions include: 

• Common cold
• Sinus infection
• Laryngitis: inflammation of your voice box, usually due to overuse
• Throat inflammation
• Epiglottitis: inflammation in the cartilage flap at the back of your tongue

Lower respiratory conditions affect the windpipe, bronchial tubes, and lungs. Some conditions, like COVID-19, can affect either the upper or lower respiratory tract. 

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory conditions?

Upper respiratory conditions can cause symptoms, including: 

• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or loss of voice

Some upper respiratory conditions cause a fever as well. 

How are upper respiratory conditions diagnosed?

At Urgent CareX, you’ll share your symptoms with your provider. They’ll perform an upper respiratory exam, checking your mouth, throat, nasal passages, and breathing. Depending on your suspected condition, you may need tests like a chest X-ray, lung function test, nasal swab, or throat swab. 

If you have any in-office tests, you’ll usually get the results quickly. For example, COVID-19 testing takes just 15 minutes for the rapid test and 24 hours for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. 

How are upper respiratory conditions treated?

Treatment of upper respiratory conditions varies with the specific condition and your symptoms. Bacterial infections require antibiotics, with the treatment course ranging from a day to a week or longer. There are treatments for COVID-19, including Paxlovid™ and monoclonal antibody treatments. 

Some conditions may not have a specific medication-based treatment, but your provider can prescribe solutions to relieve issues like sore throat, coughing, and sneezing. Optimal symptom management can make your recovery more manageable as your body fights the illness. 

Urgent CareX can help you stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, such as COVID-19 or influenza, to help you prevent future illnesses. 

Recognizing upper respiratory issues and reaching out for help is your shortcut to a fast recovery, so call the Urgent CareX office nearest to you or click on the provided online scheduling link to make your appointment now.