What are upper respiratory infections?
A person with an upper respiratory infection has inflammation of the nose, sinuses, ears, or throat, caused by a viral infection. The most common name for an upper respiratory infection is a cold. Adults average 3 upper respiratory infections per year, while children average 6 upper respiratory infections per year.

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections?
Symptoms of upper respiratory infections include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, ear pain, coughing, fever, headache, fatigue, and body aches. The throat may become red.

How does the doctor treat upper respiratory infections?
Treatment for upper respiratory infections may include rest, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for fever, and nonprescription medications for a cough, sore throat, or nasal congestion.