Where Can I Find a Respiratory Infection Treatment Doctor in Orange City FL?

At Town Center Family Practice, we frequently care for patients experiencing respiratory infections, which can range from mild to severe. These infections may begin with subtle symptoms but can progress depending on your overall health and the specific cause.
 
Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough: This may be dry or produce mucus.
• Sore throat and nasal congestion: These can make breathing through your nose more difficult.
• Sneezing and runny nose: Particularly common in upper respiratory infections like the common cold.
• Fever and chills: Often accompanied by a general feeling of fatigue or malaise.
• Shortness of breath: Especially in more serious infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Chest discomfort: You might feel pain or tightness, especially when coughing or taking deep breaths.
• Hoarse voice or decreased appetite: Some patients report these symptoms as well.
 
In more serious cases, you may experience rapid breathing, wheezing, or even notice a bluish color on your lips or fingertips—signs that your body may not be getting enough oxygen.
 
When to Seek Care at Town Center Family Practice

If you are a patient at Town Center Family Practice and notice your symptoms worsening, or if you develop a high fever, confusion, or significant difficulty breathing, please contact our office promptly. Our experienced healthcare providers are here to evaluate your symptoms, provide appropriate treatment, and ensure your respiratory health.
 
Early intervention can make a significant difference, so don’t hesitate to reach out to Town Center Family Practice if you have concerns about respiratory infections or any other health issue.

At Town Center Family Practice, we know it can be difficult to tell the difference between a viral and a bacterial respiratory infection. Both types of infections—such as the common cold, flu, strep throat, or pneumonia—can cause symptoms like cough, sore throat, fatigue, and congestion. Our experienced healthcare team is here to help you understand your symptoms and provide the right care.
 
How to Tell the Difference
Viral respiratory infections (like most colds and influenza) usually start gradually, with symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, mild fever, and a dry cough. You may also have body aches, headache, and general tiredness. These infections often resolve within a week to ten days and typically do not require antibiotics.
 
Bacterial respiratory infections (such as strep throat or bacterial pneumonia) tend to cause more severe symptoms, often including a sudden high fever, chills, and persistent cough with thick, colored mucus. You might also notice chest pain, shortness of breath, or swollen glands. Sometimes, these symptoms develop after seeming to recover from a cold or flu.
 
When to Seek Care at Town Center Family Practice
Most mild respiratory infections will get better on their own, but certain symptoms mean it’s time to see a provider at Town Center Family Practice:
 
• High fever or symptoms lasting more than 10 days
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Severe sore throat, especially with white patches or swollen glands
• Cough producing green, yellow, or bloody mucus
• If you have underlying health conditions (like asthma, COPD, diabetes, or a weakened immune system)
 
Our Approach
Our team can perform a thorough evaluation—including a physical exam and, if needed, tests such as throat swabs, sputum cultures, or chest X-rays—to determine the cause of your infection. We only prescribe antibiotics when they are truly needed, helping to prevent antibiotic resistance and ensuring you receive the most effective treatment.

At Town Center Family Practice, we provide comprehensive care for respiratory infections, personalized to each patient’s needs and overall health. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of a common cold, influenza, or a more serious infection, our experienced medical team is here to help.
 
For viral respiratory infections—such as the common cold or most cases of influenza—our approach focuses on symptom relief. We encourage rest, hydration, and may recommend over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce fever and discomfort. In some cases, especially with influenza, our providers may prescribe antiviral medications, which are most effective when started early.
 
If your infection is caused by bacteria, such as with bacterial pneumonia or strep throat, our team will determine if antibiotics are necessary. It is important to take the full course of prescribed antibiotics, even if you start to feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated. Supportive care options—like humidifiers, saline nasal sprays, or throat lozenges—may also be recommended to help you feel more comfortable.
 
For patients with underlying conditions like asthma or COPD, we take special care to adjust your treatment plan as needed, ensuring your respiratory health is managed thoroughly. In rare cases where breathing difficulties or complications arise, we coordinate hospital care and advanced treatments, such as supplemental oxygen or intravenous fluids.
 
Prevention is a key part of our mission at Town Center Family Practice. We promote annual flu vaccinations, COVID-19 vaccines, and other recommended immunizations. We also provide education on hand hygiene and ways to reduce your risk of infection.
 
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or chest pain, please contact Town Center Family Practice promptly. Our compassionate team is ready to provide timely evaluation and care to help you recover quickly and safely.

At Town Center Family Practice, we know that the duration of a respiratory infection can vary based on several factors, including the specific type of infection, your overall health, and whether the infection is viral or bacterial. Most mild upper respiratory infections—such as the common cold—typically resolve within 7 to 10 days, though symptoms like cough or congestion may linger for up to two weeks. If you’re dealing with viral infections like influenza (the flu), you can usually expect improvement within 5 to 7 days, although fatigue and cough may persist a bit longer.
 
Lower respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, often take more time to resolve. Acute bronchitis generally improves in two to three weeks, while recovering from pneumonia may take several weeks, especially if you are an older adult or have existing health conditions. If your respiratory infection is caused by bacteria and requires antibiotics, symptoms commonly begin to improve within a few days after starting treatment. However, it’s important to finish the prescribed course of medication, even if you feel better, to ensure complete recovery.

When a cough, congestion, or shortness of breath makes every breath a struggle, seeking expert care is essential. At Town Center Family Practice, Dr. Luis Morales-Torres, MD, and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of respiratory illnesses, including acute bronchitis, sinusitis, and influenza. Whether you are dealing with a seasonal bug or a flare-up of a chronic condition like asthma or COPD, Dr. Luis utilizes his 45+ years of experience to provide a personalized treatment plan that targets your specific symptoms.

Our Orange City clinic offers comprehensive diagnostic tools, including EKGs and rapid testing, to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Beyond immediate relief, Dr. Luis emphasizes long-term lung health through preventive screenings and vaccinations. With the convenience of same-day sick visits and telehealth options, you can access the care you need without delay. Trust Dr. Luis and the dedicated staff at Town Center Family Practice to help you breathe easier and return to your daily life with vitality.

At Town Center Family Practice, we encourage you to contact us if your symptoms last longer than expected, worsen, or if you experience high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion. These may indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience chronic or recurrent respiratory infections, please schedule a visit with our healthcare team so we can evaluate underlying health issues and provide the care you need. We are conveniently located at 1642 N. Volusia Ave, Orange City, FL 32763. We serve patients from Orange City FL, DeLand FL, Deltona FL, DeBary FL, Lake Monroe FL, Sanford FL, and surrounding areas.