This talk is tailored to help equine veterinarians improve their diagnostic approach and decision-making for common upper respiratory tract conditions. The session will focus on connecting clinical signs and performance changes to specific upper respiratory diseases, empowering practitioners to better understand the underlying issues impacting equine health and performance. Attendees will gain an overview of key updates in diagnosis and management techniques, allowing them to provide owners with well-informed recommendations. These updates are designed to equip general practitioners with the necessary knowledge to determine whether referral to a specialist is warranted, enabling clearer communication with clients regarding prognosis, expected outcomes, and potential costs. In addition to referral guidance, the talk will provide practical recommendations for field-based management strategies that veterinarians can use for common upper respiratory issues. The discussion will include conditions such as recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (i.e., laryngeal hemiplegia, dorsal displacement of the soft palate, and pharyngeal collapse, emphasizing what can be done in a general practice setting to stabilize or manage these cases before a referral is needed. Moreover, the presentation will explore other underlying diseases that may contribute to upper respiratory abnormalities, such as allergies, inflammatory airway disease, and infections. By addressing these primary issues, veterinarians may often alleviate or even resolve upper airway problems. Ultimately, this session aims to enhance the ability of general practitioners to diagnose, manage, and advise on upper respiratory conditions, improving outcomes for both horses and their owners.