COMMON COLD AND RELATED INFECTIONS
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI)
Common infections of the nose, throat, sinuses and upper airways causing cough, sore throat, runny nose, mild fever and congestion. Most are viral and settle with supportive care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common infections affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, pharynx and upper airways. The vast majority are caused by viruses such as the common cold viruses, influenza and other seasonal viruses, while a smaller proportion are bacterial. Typical symptoms include runny or blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever, headache, body aches and tiredness. Most URTIs are self-limiting and recover within a week with rest, hydration and symptom-relieving care. Antibiotics are not needed for viral infections. However, certain features — high or persistent fever, breathing difficulty, severe throat pain or worsening symptoms — may suggest a bacterial cause or a more serious illness needing evaluation. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate assessment and complete URTI care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infection with common cold and influenza viruses
- Bacterial infection in a smaller proportion of cases
- Close contact with infected persons
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then the face
- Seasonal changes and exposure to cold weather
- Lower immunity due to stress, fatigue or chronic illness
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical evaluation; throat swab or blood tests in selected cases
Supportive care; antibiotics only when a bacterial cause is identified
Most cases settle within 5–7 days; cough may persist longer
High fever, breathing difficulty, severe throat pain or worsening symptoms
Hand hygiene, masks in high-risk settings and annual flu vaccination
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Supportive Care with Targeted Antibiotic Use
The most effective approach is rest, hydration and symptom relief for the majority of viral URTIs, with antibiotics reserved only for clearly bacterial infections. This avoids unnecessary antibiotic use, prevents resistance and lets the body recover naturally.
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Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the throat, nose, ears and chest, and arranges tests only when needed.
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Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created — usually supportive care, with antibiotics reserved for clearly bacterial features or complications.
- 3
Medical Management
Hydration, fever and pain control, decongestants where appropriate and targeted antibiotic therapy only when indicated.
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Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up review if symptoms persist or worsen, and counselling on prevention and annual flu vaccination.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Supportive Care
Rest, plenty of fluids, warm drinks and steam inhalation help relieve symptoms and support recovery.
Symptomatic Relief
Safe fever-controlling and pain-relieving medication eases sore throat, headache and body aches.
Decongestants and Nasal Care
Saline nasal sprays and short-term decongestants help relieve nasal blockage and discomfort.
Targeted Antibiotic Therapy if Bacterial
Antibiotics are prescribed only when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, based on clinical features.
Annual Flu Vaccination
Yearly influenza vaccination reduces the risk of flu-related URTIs and complications, especially in high-risk groups.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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