Upper Respiratory Infection: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Upper Respiratory Infection?
Most people see a primary care doctor, and that is usually all they need. A pulmonologist, a lung specialist, may become involved if infections keep coming back or there is a deeper breathing problem. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is an upper respiratory infection?
An upper respiratory infection is an illness caused by germs that get into the nose, throat, and sinuses. Most people call it a common cold. It usually goes away on its own within a week or two. Treatment focuses on rest and comfort while the body fights the virus.
An upper respiratory infection is an infection of the upper airways: the nose, sinuses, pharynx (throat), and larynx (voice box). Most are caused by viruses; bacteria cause a smaller share. Doctors sometimes name the infection by the body part affected, such as rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, or laryngitis.
Symptoms
Symptoms often start one to three days after contact with the germ. Common signs include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, and mild headache. Most improve within seven to ten days, though a cough can linger for a few weeks.
Causes and who gets it
Viruses cause most upper respiratory infections, and rhinoviruses lead the list. Germs spread through droplets in the air or by touching a contaminated surface and then the face. Young children, older adults, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems get them more often, especially in fall and winter.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors usually diagnose an upper respiratory infection by asking about symptoms and doing a physical exam. Testing is often not needed. If something more serious is suspected, such as pneumonia or strep throat, they may order a throat swab, chest X-ray, or blood tests.
Treatment
Most cases get better with time, rest, and fluids. Over-the-counter medicines can ease symptoms, such as pain relievers for aches or saline sprays for congestion. Antibiotics do not help viral infections and can cause side effects and resistance, so doctors avoid prescribing them unless bacteria are the cause.
When to see a doctor
Call a doctor if symptoms last longer than ten days, if a fever is high or persistent, or if breathing becomes difficult. Other warning signs include chest pain, severe headache, confusion, or symptoms that improve and then return worse. People with asthma, lung disease, or weakened immune systems should check with a doctor early.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Both can examine you, recommend comfort measures, prescribe medicine when truly needed, and follow up closely. If symptoms point to something beyond a simple infection, they will refer you to a pulmonologist.
Common questions
Do I need antibiotics for a cold?
Usually no. Antibiotics fight bacteria, and colds are almost always viral. Taking them unnecessarily can cause side effects and make future infections harder to treat.
How long am I contagious?
People with a cold are often contagious for the first few days, sometimes before symptoms start. Most stop spreading the virus after about a week.
Can I go to work or school with an upper respiratory infection?
Rest helps recovery, and staying home protects others. If you must go out, washing your hands often and covering coughs lowers the risk of spreading it.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Manage Common Cold | Common Cold
- MedlinePlus - Common Cold
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
