When you catch a cold, it's common to experience mild symptoms like a sore throat, congestion, and fatigue. However, sometimes those symptoms worsen instead of improve over time. There are several reasons why a cold may worsen over time instead of improve. Potential reasons why your symptoms may be worsening include complications like secondary infections, not getting enough rest, or even misdiagnosis of your symptoms. If you’re experiencing illness symptoms that just won’t go away, keep reading to learn tips for healing a cold and options for treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction, we offer patients in Grand Junction, CO with same-day illness treatment on a walk-in basis. Just walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, we’re open 7 days a week!
How Long Do Cold Symptoms Normally Last?
Colds are caused by viral infections. They typically cause mild symptoms that last anywhere from 7 to 10 days, although some symptoms, like a cough, can persist for up to two weeks. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary depending on the individual and factors such as overall health, immune function, and whether any complications arise. In most cases, diagnostic testing and medical treatment are not necessary for treatment and the infection will go away on its own over time.
Cold symptoms typically do not worsen over time and rarely cause severe symptoms. Symptoms usually begin with a sore throat, followed by a runny nose, congestion, and mild fatigue. Symptoms like nasal congestion, cough, and body aches can also occur. Symptoms gradually improve, though a cough or slight congestion may persist. If symptoms last longer than two weeks or worsen, it might be a sign of a secondary infection, like sinusitis or bronchitis which requires medical treatment.
When to Seek Medical Care
Persistent cold symptoms that last longer than 10 days or worsen over time may indicate an underlying issue or a complication. Sometimes, a cold can lead to other infections, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, or ear infections. If your symptoms last longer than two weeks or become severe with symptoms such as a fever, a cough that produces discolored mucus, or severe discomfort, you should seek medical treatment. Your medical provider will be able to evaluate your symptoms and perform diagnostic testing to accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and treat them effectively.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction for Walk-In Illness Treatment
If you’re experiencing illness symptoms that won’t go away or continue to become more severe over time, you may have a more severe infection than just a cold. At AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction, our dedicated medical providers are experts at diagnosing the cause of your symptoms and treating the infection so that you can recover quickly. We offer same-day illness care to patients in Grand Junction, CO, and the surrounding areas 7 days a week, including weekends. Simply walk into the clinic!
