Fall is a season that we typically see a rise in illness cases. This happens for multiple different reasons, including events like back-to-school season, changes in the weather and spending more time indoors. There are many different illnesses that can spread throughout the fall, however, mild illnesses such as the common cold are the most common. Most of the time, colds can resolve on their own. However, if you’re feeling sick you should seek medical care for diagnosis and treatment to ensure a swift recovery. Visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst for same-day illness symptom diagnosis and treatment in Lyndhurst, NJ.
Symptoms of a Cold
If you have ever woken up with mild illness symptoms like a stuffy nose, sore throat or congestion - you likely have experienced a cold. The common cold is an umbrella term used to describe mild viral infections. Colds are typically very mild and resolve on their own over the course of a few days. There are hundreds of types of viruses that can cause symptoms of a cold. Common cold symptoms include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Congestion
- Post-nasal drip
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Cough
How to Treat a Cold
Colds are caused by viral infections. Due to this, colds cannot be treated with medications like antibiotics. Instead, your body will fight off the infection on its own. In most cases, cold symptoms will resolve within a week without medical care. However, it is important to get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal and fight off the infection. You can use over-the-counter medications to manage your symptoms including decongestants, nasal sprays and throat lozenges to stay comfortable as your body fights off the infection.
How to Prevent a Cold
Colds are generally mild illnesses, however, they are easily spread from person to person meaning most people will experience a cold at some point throughout the year. Although colds are mild and often go away on their own, they still can cause some frustrating symptoms. Here are some tips for avoiding contracting a cold this fall:
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid contact with public surfaces like door knobs
- Stay away from anyone demonstrating illness symptoms
- Reduce the time you spend indoors when possible
- Get enough rest to boost your immune system
Visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst for Same-Day Illness Treatment in Lyndhurst, NJ
The common cold tends to circulate during the fall season. Be prepared by understanding how colds spread and how you can reduce your chances of catching a cold. If you are experiencing symptoms of a cold, visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day illness symptom diagnosis so that you can determine what is causing your symptoms and treat it effectively. Our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide prompt care on a walk-in basis for patients in Lyndhurst, NJ, and the surrounding communities. Walk-in today!
