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Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

These infections, ranging from the common cold to sinusitis, are seen throughout the year.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Upper Respiratory Tract Infections?

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are infections of viral or bacterial origin affecting the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, and sinuses. The common cold (rhinitis), pharyngitis, sinusitis, laryngitis, and otitis are in this group.

More than a hundred virus types, especially rhinoviruses, can cause URTI. Group A streptococcus is the prominent bacterial cause of pharyngitis. It is normal to experience 6-8 episodes per year in children and 2-4 in adults.

Antibiotics are ineffective in viral URTI and unnecessary use leads to resistant bacteria. When bacterial etiology is suspected (streptococcal pharyngitis, bacterial sinusitis), appropriate antibiotic therapy should be started.

Symptoms

Runny nose and nasal congestion
Sore throat and swallowing difficulty
Cough
Fever (especially prominent in bacterial form)
Headache and facial pain (in sinusitis)
Hoarseness (in laryngitis)

Risk Factors

Crowded environments and daycare/school-age children
Winter months and indoor air
Smoking
Immunodeficiency states
Inadequate hand hygiene

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If high fever does not resolve in 48-72 hours
  • If white plaque is seen in the throat for strep test
  • If sinusitis symptoms last longer than 10 days
  • If ear pain or hearing loss accompanies

Treatment Methods

01
Rest, plenty of fluids and symptomatic medications (decongestants, analgesics)
02
Saline nasal irrigation
03
Penicillin or amoxicillin for strep pharyngitis
04
Amoxicillin-clavulanate for bacterial sinusitis
05
Strengthening immunity (regular sleep, balanced nutrition, vitamin D)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.