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Is An Upper Respiratory Infection Infectious?
Question: Is an upper respiratory infection infectious? And is there a prescription that will speed the healing process? Thanks so much
Brief Answer:
it is contagious but no meds to cause it go away
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes an upper respiratory infection (common cold) is infectious.
It is spread by nasal secretions (from sneezing, nasal discharge), secretions from cough.
Either direct contact with the secretions when a person cough/sneeze etc or if a person comes into contact with a surface that has the virus on it.
Eg if a person sneezes and covers with their hand , touches a surface and someone else touches this surface.
There is no medication at the moment that helps get rid of upper resp tract infection (common cold) but there are meds to help relieve the symptoms.
Eg paracetamol or ibuprofen helps with any aches/pains and fever
Over the counter cough and cold medication can help with cough, nasal congestion as well. A cough medication should contain a cough suppressant and decongestant (helps with sinus congestion and nasal congestion).
May also have an anti histamine as well
Fluids and rest would also be important to help.
I hope this helps,feel free to ask any other questions
it is contagious but no meds to cause it go away
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes an upper respiratory infection (common cold) is infectious.
It is spread by nasal secretions (from sneezing, nasal discharge), secretions from cough.
Either direct contact with the secretions when a person cough/sneeze etc or if a person comes into contact with a surface that has the virus on it.
Eg if a person sneezes and covers with their hand , touches a surface and someone else touches this surface.
There is no medication at the moment that helps get rid of upper resp tract infection (common cold) but there are meds to help relieve the symptoms.
Eg paracetamol or ibuprofen helps with any aches/pains and fever
Over the counter cough and cold medication can help with cough, nasal congestion as well. A cough medication should contain a cough suppressant and decongestant (helps with sinus congestion and nasal congestion).
May also have an anti histamine as well
Fluids and rest would also be important to help.
I hope this helps,feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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