Upper respiratory tract infection (URI)

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Upper respiratory tract infection (URI)

An upper respiratory tract infection (URI) is a bacterial or viral infection of the nose, throat, or tubes leading to the lungs (bronchial tubes). Common symptoms of a URI are a runny or stuffy nose and a cough.

Examples of URIs include influenza (flu), a cold, sinusitis, and acute bronchitis.

Treatment for a URI is based on whether a doctor suspects it is caused by a bacteria or virus. If the cause is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are used. If the cause is a viral infection, home treatment is used, such as getting extra rest and drinking plenty of liquids.

Frequent hand-washing, especially during cold or flu season, can help prevent URIs. People should also try to avoid using their hands to wipe their eyes, nose, or mouth. Eating well, exercising, keeping stress levels low, and not smoking can also help.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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