Acute Respiratory Infection

Infections of the upper or lower respiratory systems are often caused by bacterial or viral illnesses. The upper respiratory system includes the sinuses, nasal passages, throat and larynx, while the lower respiratory system includes the bronchial tubes and lungs. An acute respiratory infection can pose serious risks to overall health, especially for young children and older adults. Our medical team at Primary Care Joliet offers acute respiratory diagnosis and treatment at our clinics in Wilmington and Joliet, IL.

Symptoms of Respiratory Infections

The symptoms of acute respiratory infections depend on whether it affects the upper or lower respiratory systems. Upper infections can result in nasal congestion, runny nose, headaches, facial/sinus pain, sore throat and fever. Lower infections can cause wheezing, coughing, sore throat, body aches and fever. Anyone with a respiratory infection that has a fever over 103 degrees or is having difficulty breathing should seek immediate medical care.

Causes of Acute Respiratory Infections

An acute respiratory infection can be caused by any infection that impacts the upper or lower respiratory function. This can result in difficulty breathing and may pose serious risks for those with weak immune systems. Possible causes of acute respiratory infections include:

• Ear infections
• Sinusitis
• Colds and flu
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Viral infections

A simple cold can progress into a more serious respiratory condition in some people. This can require antibiotics or other treatments to control the infection and reduce the risk of severe complications. Viral infections have limited treatment options – antibiotics do not help a viral infection that has impacted respiratory function.

Acute respiratory infections can lead to respiratory arrest or failure, as well as congestive heart failure or death. It is a serious condition, especially for young children, elderly adults and anyone with a chronic immune system, lung or heart condition.

If you have symptoms of an upper or lower acute respiratory infection, it is important to see your primary care provider. At Primary Care Joliet, we welcome new and existing patients to our clinics for acute respiratory infection treatment. Call our clinic to schedule an urgent care appointment – we have locations in Joliet and Wilmington, IL, for your convenience.