Viral Upper Respiratory Infections
Viral Upper Respiratory infections are also known as viral URI’s and common colds. When symptoms
involve the chest, the term Bronchitis is often used.
Symptoms include any of the following, often in combination:
 Nasal congestion
 Runny Nose
o NOTE; discolored (green, yellow) nasal discharge is common and does not indicate a
bacterial infection.
 Sore Throat
o Isolated Sore throat particularly with swollen glands or fever but without nasal
congestion, though often viral may be Mononucleosis (particularly if persisting beyond
one week) or Strep throat (which generally requires an antibiotic.
o See Mono and Strep Throat Information.
o NOTE; less than 10% of sore throats are caused by Strep, the majority being viruses.
 Facial pressure
 Tiredness
 Fever
o NOTE; Fever is not common with simple viral upper respiratory infections though it can
occur on occasion. When it does occur it is usually below 102 and lasts only 1-3 days.
 Chest congestion
o This may accompany the above symptoms or be the primary symptom, occasional
exhibiting coarse wheezing.
o When chest symptoms predominate a diagnosis of Viral Bronchitis is often made.
o The same viruses that can cause the nasal symptoms can cause chest symptoms as well.
o See Bronchitis Information.
 Cough
o Cough may be dry or productive (clear, yellow or green discharge)
o Bloody Cough (Hemoptysis), though usually not serious, may have a more serious cause
and should prompt evaluation by a medical provider at the Health Center.
NOTE: Viral URI symptoms with fever may indicate the “Flu” (Influenza).
See Respiratory Symptom Guide for advice.
What To Do:
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Rest
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Get additional sleep
Avoid over exertion.
Do not exercise if fever or symptoms “below the neck” see Exercise and Illness
information.
Use Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory (Advil, Ibuprofen,
Naproxen, Aleve, etc.) for discomfort.
Some people obtain relief from Over the Counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines
including decongestants.
 Individual responses vary.
 See Over the counter medications for cold and flu information.
Nasal Saline drops or steam may help with nasal congestion.
Avoid alcohol
Avoid tobacco
When Should I Make an Appointment to be Seen at Student Health Services?
Call 442-5229 to make an appointment (sick visit appointments are provided within 24 hours in most cases).
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Any fever (measured Temperature over 100.4) persisting beyond 3-5 days
o See Fever Information
If you are asthmatic, worsening of asthma symptoms (i.e increased inhaler use)
Shortness of breath at rest or with mild exertion.
Persistence of symptoms beyond 14 days or severe worsening after 7-10 days.
Concern of possible Strep throat, see Strep Throat information.
Concern of possible Mononucleosis, see Mono information.
Do I Need an Antibiotic?
Since Upper Respiratory infections, with the symptoms noted above are viral, antibiotics are not warranted.
If you decide you need an evaluation at Student Health Services your medical provider can determine if an
antibiotic is warranted.
See Antibiotic Use and Misuse information.