The common cold often seizes the opportunity to make its presence known during the fall. While a cold may not be a serious illness, its symptoms can make life uncomfortable. Find out how to manage your cold symptoms at home, and when to seek medical care at urgent care this fall.

Common Cold Symptoms

Although a cold can strike at any time, colds often become more prevalent as temperatures drop. During the colder months, viruses become more common and are more easily spread through work and school environments.

Symptoms of a cold may include:

• Congestion
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Itchy eyes
• Fatigue
• Mild fever

Although colds often bring mild symptoms, they still can disrupt your day-to-day life. If your symptoms are severe, or don’t resolve in 7-10 days, seek medical attention as you could have a more serious health condition.

At Home Cold Remedies

You don't necessarily need to rush to the doctor because of a cold in the fall. Most of the time, common cold symptoms can be effectively managed at home. Here are some tips to help you feel better without leaving the comfort of your home:

Stay Hydrated

One of the most crucial aspects of recovery when you’re sick is to stay well-hydrated. Your body needs water to function properly, especially while it fights off the viruses that cause cold symptoms. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to soothe your throat and moisten your respiratory system.

Rest

Your body needs extra energy to fight off illnesses. Get plenty of rest and sleep to help your immune system do its job effectively. Don’t participate in strenuous activities until your symptoms have resided.

Use Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter cold and flu remedies can alleviate some cold symptoms. Look for medications that target your specific symptoms, like decongestants for nasal congestion or cough suppressants for a persistent cough.

Gargle with Saltwater

Sore throats are a common cold symptom. To relieve a sore throat, try gargling with warm saltwater. It can help reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort.

Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods

Consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to provide your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals to build immunity and aid recovery.

When to Seek Urgent Care When You're Sick

If your symptoms worsen or fail to improve after several days of home care, it's time to consult a healthcare professional. A high fever above 102°F or severe body aches might be signs of a more serious illness, such as the flu, and should prompt a visit to urgent care for proper illness diagnosis and treatment.

Difficulty breathing, especially if it becomes severe, is a clear indicator for immediate medical attention. Additionally, if your symptoms persist for an extended period or you have underlying health conditions like asthma or diabetes, reaching out to an urgent care facility sooner is advisable, as these conditions may put you at higher risk for complications. In all cases, it's better to err on the side of caution regarding your health.

Get Illness Diagnosis & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Centennial

At AFC Urgent Care Centennial, we understand that being sick is never fun. That’s why we have designed a healthcare experience to ensure that you can get the care that you need, exactly when you need it. Our clinic in Centennial, CO, is open 7 days a week and accepts walk-in patients. Our facility features a state-of-the-art lab and an on-site digital x-ray suite for advanced diagnostics with fast results.

We are able to accept most medical insurance plans and offer low-cost self-payment options. You can schedule an appointment here, or simply walk in when it is convenient for you. Our dedicated medical staff is board-certified and prepared to help provide a rapid diagnosis and customized treatment plan for your symptoms. Don’t delay, get the healthcare you need today by walking into AFC Urgent Care Centennial. For additional questions, please contact our team directly by calling 303-220-9168.