A runny nose, dry cough, sneezing, and stuffiness are all signs of a common condition called an upper respiratory infection. The upper respiratory infection you’re probably most familiar with is the common cold. Most upper respiratory infections, including the common cold, are caused by viruses. The viruses that cause colds and upper respiratory infections irritate the inner lining of your nose, throat, and, sometimes, your sinuses. That’s why you experience a runny nose, stuffiness, sore throat, or cough when you have a cold.
Whether it’s dry or wet and productive, coughing can be annoying and tiring. Sometimes a cough can be a sign of bronchitis, croup, upper respiratory infection, or pneumonia. We can evaluate your symptoms and provide a treatment plan which may include over-the-counter or prescription medications if needed.
Sore & strep throats
The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection, such as a cold. Allergies, postnasal drip, and cigarette smoke can also make your throat hurt.
So while most sore throats are caused by viruses, strep throat is caused by bacteria called group A streptococcus or group A strep. Group A strep live in the nose and throat and can be easily spread to others. If an infected person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria travel in tiny droplets of water known as respiratory droplets. You can get sick if you breathe in those droplets or if you touch something that has the droplets on it then, in turn, touch your mouth or nose. You could also become ill if you drink from the same glass or eat from the same plate as a sick person.
Strep is contagious and requires antibiotic treatment.
