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A 34-year-old member asked:

When can a cold turn it a upper respiratory infection?

2 doctor answers7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Aileen Caceres
Specializes in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Yes it can: The most common cause of colds are viruses. These can in turn become bacterial infections that can affect the upper respiratory system. Signs to look for when concerned that your has turned into an upper respiratory infection include sinus pain or earache. If you are producing increased nasal discharge that is green to dark yellow in color then be concerned about a bacterial infection.
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Dr. David Lee
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 34 years experience
"Always": A cold is a type of upper respiratory infection (URI) caused by a virus. Uri's can also be caused by bacterial infections.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

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A 33-year-old female asked:

Can upper respiratory infection turn into corona virus?

1 doctor answer2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Donald Colantino
Internal Medicine 63 years experience
Both: You could be infected by the coronavirus while in the midst of a simple viral upper respiratory tract infection or head cold. The latter doesn't "turn into" a coronavirus infection, however.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
A 27-year-old member asked:

How do you know if child has upper respiratory infection or cold?

1 doctor answer3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Katharine Garnier
Family Medicine 35 years experience
The same: Some people call an upper respiratory infection a cold, both are usually caused by a virus and treating the symptoms is all that is necessary while your body fights the infection. If your child is has a fever, is having trouble eating or breathing, you should see your family doctor. Colds, and all other upper respiratory infections, are contagious, so avoid coughing/touching or kissing people.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
A 39-year-old member asked:

What are the tests for upper respiratory infection?

1 doctor answer3 doctors weighed in
Dr. John Weeks
Family Medicine 47 years experience
Usually none: The diagnosis can usually be made by taking a history and examining the patient. In most cases no tests are necessary. Cultures, rapid strep screens, x-rays may be done if your doctor suspects bacterial complications or something other than uri.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
A 21-year-old female asked:

How can you tell if you have an upper respiratory infection?

1 doctor answer1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Joel Gallant
Infectious Disease 38 years experience
Cold symptoms: Sore throat, runny nose, nasal or sinus congestion, cough, fever, fatigue, headache.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jan 5, 2019

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