Viral Upper Respiratory Illness with Wheezing (Adult)

You have a viral upper respiratory illness (URI), which is another term for the common cold. When the infection causes a lot of irritation, the air passages can go into spasm. This causes wheezing and shortness of breath.

This illness is contagious during the first few days. It is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing. It may also be spread by direct contact. This could be by touching the sick person and then touching your own eyes, nose, or mouth. Frequent hand washing will decrease the risk.

Most viral illnesses go away within 7 to 10 days with rest and simple home remedies. Sometimes the illness may last for several weeks. Antibiotics will not kill a virus, and they are generally not prescribed for this condition. If you are wheezing you may be sent home with an inhaler (bronchodilator).

Home care

• If symptoms are severe, rest at home for the first 2 to 3 days. When you resume activity, do not let yourself get too tired.

• Stay away from cigarette smoke.

• If you smoke, speak with your healthcare provider for help quitting.

• If prescribed an inhaler, use it as advised to help with wheezing.

• You may use Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) to control pain and fever, unless another medicine was prescribed. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, have ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, or are taking blood-thinning medicines, talk with your healthcare provider before using these medicines. Aspirin should never be given to anyone under 18 years of age who is ill with a viral infection or fever. It may cause severe liver or brain damage.

• Your appetite may be poor, so a light diet is fine. Avoid dehydration by drinking 6 to 8 glasses of fluids per day (water, soft drinks, juices, tea, or soup). Extra fluids will help loosen secretions in the nose and lungs.

• Over-the-counter cold medicines will not shorten the length of time you are sick, but they may be helpful for the following symptoms: cough, sore throat, and nasal and sinus congestion. Do not use decongestants if you have high blood pressure.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.