It is frustrating and sometimes alarming when a cold appears to drag on longer than you expect it to. Although most colds clear up before 10 days, some colds can have symptoms that extend more than two weeks. Knowing why this happens, when it is considered a normal course of recovery, and when it may be something serious are all important pieces of information to help you determine the best course of action to treat your symptoms.
If you’re experiencing prolonged illness symptoms, AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction is here to help. Our board-certified medical providers are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of common conditions. Our clinic is open 7 days a week and provides same-day care for patients in Grand Junction, CO. Walk in today!
Common Cold Symptoms
A cold is caused by a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. Colds are very common and extremely contagious. However, the symptoms of a cold tend to be mild and treatable at home. Symptoms of a cold usually include a sore throat, runny nose, and coughing, which peak in the first three days and then resolve slowly after that. It can take up to 2 weeks for cold symptoms to fully go away. Coughs are typically the longest-lasting symptom of a cold. However, the duration of your symptoms may be impacted by factors such as the body's immune response, lifestyle considerations, and any underlying health conditions.
How Long Cold Symptoms Typically Last
In most cases, colds go away on their own within a week. However, it is not that uncommon for certain cold symptoms to last for over two weeks. If your symptoms are still lingering after 2 weeks, they may still be within the normal range. It is important to monitor your symptoms carefully and look for signs of your symptoms worsening. If your symptoms continue to worsen after 2 weeks, then you may have a more severe infection than a cold and should seek medical care.
When to Seek Medical Care
Colds typically go away on their own over time. However, cold-like symptoms are often an indicator of a more severe infection that is beginning. If your symptoms continue to worsen over time rather than get better, you could have a bacterial infection. In some cases, colds can develop into secondary infections such as sinus infections.
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms like a fever or a cough that produces discolored mucus, you may have an infection that requires medical care. Similarly, if your symptoms last more than 2 weeks, or are not getting better after 2 weeks, you should seek medical care. Seeking medical care is the most effective way to determine the cause of your symptoms so that you can accurately treat them.
Walk Into AFC Grand Junction for Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment
Cold symptoms typically resolve on their own in under 2 weeks, however, symptoms can sometimes linger longer than 2 weeks. If your symptoms are severe or continue to worsen over time, you should seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction, our walk-in clinic offers same-day illness diagnosis and treatment for patients in Grand Junction, CO. Our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide you and your family with quality care when you need it most. We never require that you schedule an appointment, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you!
