What Is An Upper Respiratory Tract Infection?

Respiratory tract infections are infectious diseases in the lower or upper respiratory tract, affecting the throat, lungs, and airways. They are a result of viruses leading to cold or flu. However, they pose risks to older and the very young.

Adults typically experience 2–4 upper respiratory tract infections annually, while young children may have twice that number. Symptoms usually peak around day 3 or 4 and mostly resolve by day 7, although a cough can persist beyond the period of symptoms and infectivity. URTI disease accounts for nearly 6% of visits to Australian general practices.

Most people manage URTIs (upper respiratory tract infections) with over-the-counter remedies. Still, there is a lack of strong evidence supporting many of these treatments, leading to unclear guidance for patients and doctors.

What is URTI?

URTI medical abbreviation is Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. It refers to infections affecting the upper part of the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. 

Common examples are the common cold, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and laryngitis. Viruses usually cause these infections, although bacteria can sometimes cause them. 

Most infections resolve independently, but severe cases or those caused by bacteria require medical treatment.

Some of the common respiratory viruses include:

• Influenza virus
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Parainfluenza virus
• Adenovirus
• Rhinovirus
• Human metapneumovirus
• Enterovirus

What Causes a URTI?

URTIs are caused by viruses that infect the nose and throat. You might catch a cold virus if you:

• Touch an object that someone with a cold has touched in the last few hours, and then touch your nose, eyes, or mouth.
• You are near someone with a cold, sneezing or coughing, and you breathe in the droplets.

When a virus attaches to your nose or throat lining, it triggers an immune response that makes you feel unwell. The rhinovirus causes most colds. Other viruses that can cause colds include influenza, parainfluenza, and coronavirus.

If you have young children, you may notice them catching colds frequently. It is normal for a healthy child to have up to 12 viral illnesses in the first few years of life as they build up their immunity against viruses.

What are the Symptoms of URTI?

The signs and symptoms of respiratory viruses vary depending on the virus causing the infection. Most respiratory viruses lead to cold-like or flu-like illnesses.

Common URTI symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Malaise (feeling unwell)

Although most people recover within a few days.

Is URTI Contagious?

Yes, upper respiratory infections are contagious. They spread from person to person through respiratory droplets or direct contact. Individuals with an upper respiratory infection can transmit it to others in the following ways:

Sneezing or coughing without covering their nose and mouth releases germs that others can inhale.

Sneezing or coughing into their hand and then touching someone else’s hand, transferring the droplets. The infection can enter the body when the other person touches their nose, mouth, or eyes.

What is the Treatment for URTIs?

Urinary tract infections can resolve on their own or be manageable with home remedies.

However, these infections can cause more severe complications that require professional medical attention.

Before self-diagnosing and taking remedies, it is important to discuss with a doctor because the initial symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses, such as:

• Allergic reactions or seasonal allergies
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• COVID-19
• Influenza (the flu)
• Pneumonia

If symptoms do not improve with home care or worsen, contact a doctor, especially if breathing is difficult.

Conclusion

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) affect millions annually. While it can resolve on its own, severe symptoms or complications may require professional medical attention. 

Early diagnosis is crucial as URTI symptoms can mimic other illnesses. Get a medical certificate from a doctor immediately if you are experiencing severe symptoms, especially in the case of children. Rest, preventive measures, and timely treatment can reduce the risk of serious outcomes.