¡Abrimos todos los días de la semana!

Upper Respiratory Infection

Primary Care & Urgent Care in Tacoma, WA

If you have an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or COVID-19, you may have a sore throat, stuffy nose, or cough. The good news is that most upper respiratory infections are mild and improve with time and supportive care. At Tacoma Urgent Care and Wellness Center, our team of urgent care specialists provides prompt diagnosis and treatment of upper respiratory infections. If you or your child is sick, make an appointment by calling the office in Tacoma, Washington, or requesting an appointment online today. 

Upper Respiratory Infection
Preguntas frecuentes

What is an upper respiratory infection?


An upper respiratory infection (URI) occurs when a virus or, less commonly, bacteria enter any part of your upper respiratory system and begin to multiply. Your upper respiratory system includes your sinuses, nose, and throat.

URIs can trigger a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, but they typically aren’t serious. With diagnosis and treatment, many people start feeling better within a few days, although some symptoms can last longer.


What are some examples of upper respiratory infections?


The Tacoma Urgent Care and Wellness Center team regularly treats upper respiratory infections, including:

  • The common cold
  • Influenza (the flu)
  • COVID-19
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Streptococcus (strep throat)

If you suspect you have an upper respiratory infection, don’t wait to seek treatment. The sooner you receive a diagnosis, the sooner you can start feeling better.


What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection?


Upper respiratory infections can trigger symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These symptoms include:

  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Fatigue
  • Facial pain
  • Sneezing
  • Sinus pressure

In some cases, an upper respiratory infection can lead to more serious issues, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. 


How is an upper respiratory infection diagnosed?


Your Tacoma Urgent Care and Wellness Center provider reviews your health history, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. Specifically, they listen to your lungs with a stethoscope and collect a nasal or oral swab for testing.


After collecting the sample, your provider sends it to a nearby lab for testing. The lab analyzes your swab to determine the cause of your symptoms and to help guide treatment. 


How is an upper respiratory infection treated?


Treatment of an upper respiratory infection depends on your symptom severity and whether the infection is viral or bacterial. If you have a bacterial infection that requires treatment, your provider prescribes antibiotics. If you have a viral infection, they may prescribe an antiviral.


Aside from medication, treatment for a URI often involves rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and staying home until you’re no longer contagious. Most people feel better within a week and can then return to work and other activities.


If you’re concerned about having an upper respiratory infection, make an appointment at Tacoma Urgent Care and Wellness Center by calling the office or by booking online today.