Upper Respiratory Infections

These infections are typically connected with the common cold — which isn't so common. Colds can be caused by one of more than 200 viruses, which makes them so easy to catch and spread.

Prevention:

• No smoking in the household.
• Wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.

Signs and symptoms:

• Nasal stuffiness.
• Scratchy throat.
• Horeseness.
• Headache.
• Sneezing.
• Cough.
• Low grade fever.

To treat your or your family's cold, be sure to:

• Get lots of rest.
• Increase your fluid intake.
• Try to keep the environment humid with a humidifier or use saline nose drops.

Medications that might help include:

• Aceteminophen or ibuprofen for aches and fever.
• Nasal sprays or drops to relieve congestion — do not use for more than a couple of days because prolonged use can result in a "rebound effect" that actually makes your nose more stuffy.
• Cough suppressants.
• Expectorants to loosen congestion.
• Vitamin C — research has shown a possible reduction in the length and severity of symptoms if 1 gram or more is taken each day.

See a doctor if you or a family member have:

• A high, persistent fever.
• Severe ear ache.
• Yellow discharge from the nose which could indicate a sinus infection.
• Worsening of pre-existing asthma or lung disease.

ExpressCare24 @ Southcoast

When your family has a health problem — and your doctor isn't in — turn to ExpressCare 24 at Southcoast Hospitals.

We're here whenever you need us — all day, every day — with top-notch doctors backed by the full services of Southcoast Hospitals. We'll have you in and out in about one hour.

ExpressCare 24 at Southcoast. Great care that fits your schedule.

Address

363 Highland Avenue
Fall River, MA 02720
508-679-3131
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