The common cold is something we all experience. However, do you really know when to seek professional medical care for treatment? Let’s learn more about the common cold, its symptoms and treatments, and when you should consult a primary care physician near you.
What Is the Common Cold?
The common cold is a viral infection which primarily affects the upper respiratory tract–the nose, sinuses and throat. Caused by various rhinoviruses–up to 200 of these contagious microbes–symptoms generally are mild to moderate.
Colds can occur throughout the year. However, most people “come down” with colds during the fall and winter months–the traditional cold and flu season.
How Do People Get Sick with the Common Cold?
Colds spread primarily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You also may catch a cold by touching contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs and table tops, and then touching your face. Kissing someone or shaking hands and then touching your nose and mouth also may expose you to cold viruses.
That said, close contact with someone who is sick increases your risk of getting ill. Sp frequent hand washing is very important to you and your family. The very young and the elderly must be especially careful to avoid cold germs because these individuals do not have strong immune systems.
What Are the Symptoms of the Common Cold?
Symptoms typically appear a few days after exposure to the cold virus. You then may be sick for up to 10 days.
Symptoms may include:
- Body aches
- Fever
- Coughing and sneezing
- Nasal congestion and/or a runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fatigue
While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they usually resolve without medical intervention. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that adults typically get two to three colds per cold and flu season. Children may have an average of six to eight. Colds do cause people to miss work, school, family events and more.
How Can I Treat My Cold?
Most colds can be managed at home with tried-and-true remedies, such as:
- Rest, to allow your body time to heal
- Hydration, drinking plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, and juices
- Taking over-the-counter medications to reduce fever, congestion, coughing, and body aches
Prevention plays a significant role in cold management, too. Consistent hand washing, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding touching your mouth, nose and eyes are effective preventative measures. During peak cold and flu season, consider staying home from school and work if you’re feeling unwell. Some self-isolation can help reduce the spread of cold viruses throughout the community.
Should I See My Primary Care Physician If I Have a Cold?
While most colds resolve just fine on their own, there are situations where seeking medical advice is wise. Visit your primary care doctor if:
- Cold symptoms persist for more than 10 days or if they worsen
- You experience a fever of 101 degrees F or higher
- Persistent coughing or chest pain develops
- You have chronic health conditions, such as asthma, COPD, or diabetes, as these problems can complicate your recovery from a cold or the flu
As you recover, stay in touch with your primary care provider to ensure your cold does not become more serious. This is particularly important if your immune system is suppressed in some way–if you are under treatment for cancer, for example.
Primary Care Doctors in Sarasota and Manatee Counties
If you’re dealing with persistent cold symptoms, visit us here at the Intercoastal Medical Group for an in-office visit with one of our primary care doctors. We have a team of family practice physicians who are ready to serve you and your loved ones. Intercoastal Medical Group is a primary care-based multi-specialty group of more than 100 physicians across various specialties dedicated to helping you stay healthy.
To learn more about how we can help you be your healthiest, call the nearest Intercoastal Medical Group location for an appointment or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
