Sinus And Upper Respiratory Infection Specialist
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ExacCare
Convenient Care Clinic & Primary Care Practice located in Crossville, TN & Kingston, TN
Sinus and upper respiratory infections are two of the most common reasons people visit ExacCare in Crossville and Kingston, Tennessee. The provider at the walk-in clinic offers comprehensive assessment and diagnosis of these types of infections to relieve your symptoms as quickly as possible. Whether you need antibiotics or a referral to a specialist, the ExacCare medical team is available seven days a week to provide you with high-quality health care when you need it most. Visit as a walk-in or schedule an appointment online or by phone.
Sinus and Upper Respiratory Infection Q & A
What is the difference between a sinus infection and an upper respiratory infection?
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is a common health condition that often accompanies a cold. Nasal passages become inflamed and infected, causing pain and difficulty breathing through your nose.
An upper respiratory infection is a contagious condition where your upper respiratory tract becomes infected with a virus or bacteria. This type of infection can affect your throat, nose, larynx, and the bronchial tubes that carry air to your lungs.
What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection?
Symptoms of a sinus infection and an upper respiratory infection are very similar. In some cases, it can be difficult to tell whether your symptoms are the result of an infection in your sinuses or upper respiratory tract.
Common signs of both sinus and upper respiratory tract infections include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Stuffy or runny nose
In the case of a sinus infection, you may also notice a greenish discharge from your nose.
How are sinus and upper respiratory infections diagnosed?
To determine where the infection is, your ExacCare provider can evaluate your symptoms and perform a physical examination. If your symptoms are severe, your provider may recommend additional testing, such as a throat or sinus swab for further analysis of the infection.
You may also need a chest X-ray if you have a chronic cough or difficulty breathing. This type of testing allows your ExacCare provider to identify underlying medical conditions, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
What are the treatment options for sinus and upper respiratory infections?
Initially, your ExacCare provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and cold medications to relieve mild symptoms of an infection. You may also benefit from at-home vaporizers to reduce swelling in your nasal cavity and ease your coughing.
Because an upper respiratory is spread by coughing, sneezing, or touching infected surfaces, your medical provider may recommend staying home from work or school until the infection clears. If your sinus infection is severe, your ExacCare provider may prescribe an antibiotic. Nasal sprays and over-the-counter decongestants may also make it easier for you to breathe.
In some cases, chronic sinus infections may require surgery. Your ExacCare provider can refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
To find relief for your symptoms, visit the clinic as a walk-on or call the office in advance.
