"
This can be a tricky time of year to determine what your symptoms mean: while some ailments require the care of a doctor, others can be cured with rest at home. If you are battling a cold that seems to be getting worse instead of better, you may want to visit your local urgent care center to be checked by a licensed physician and receive the proper treatment for your needs. Some symptoms that you should not ignore include:
Mild to Severe Fever
If your cold is accompanied by a fever that keeps climbing, it could be a sign of the flu or another virus that can have long-term effects on your immune system. Some over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, can provide temporary relief but may not cause your fever to break entirely. If you suspect that your child has the flu, it is critical to not give them aspirin for pain relief. When mixed with certain viruses in children, aspirin can lead to a condition called Reye’s Syndrome, which can be fatal. If your child has a fever that exceeds 101 degrees, you should contact a doctor immediately for an examination and diagnosis. If you or your child has a fever that exceeds 104 degrees, you should visit an emergency room immediate to prevent long-term damage. Viruses and diseases that can lead to a high fever include influenza, bronchitis, pneumonia, lupus and appendicitis.
Sinus Congestion
A common symptom of a cold or the flu is congestion, primary in the nose. A stuffed or runny nose can usually be relieved with decongestants readily available at your local pharmacy. If you are regularly taking medication and you are still congested within one week, you should visit your local urgent care center for a checkup. A doctor will be able to examine you and determine if a bacterial infection is causing your congestion, which will need to be treated with prescription antibiotics. Visiting an urgent care soon into your illness will prevent major issues from occurring due to the bacteria causing the infection.
Dehydration
Dehydration is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations during cases of the flu. As your case progresses, you may exhibit vomiting and diarrhea, which will cause you to become dehydrated especially if you are not drinking water throughout the day. If you have the flu, you should make sure you are drinking water throughout the day, even if you do not feel particularly hungry or thirsty. This can prevent you from become dehydrated. Symptoms of dehydrated include faintness and dizziness, which will be treated at your local urgent care center with IV fluids and electrolytes before your case requires hospitalization.
If your cold is beginning to feel more serious, have your symptoms evaluated and treated by visiting AFC Urgent Care Stamford. We are available on a walk-in basis and accept most major insurance carriers.
"
