During fall illness season, it can be difficult to determine what is causing your illness symptoms when you’re feeling sick. The common cold is a very contagious viral infection that easily spreads from person to person. Colds can lead to a variety of symptoms, however, a fever is typically not a symptom of a cold. In most cases, a fever indicates the presence of a more severe illness than a cold. Keep reading to learn more about common cold symptoms and when to seek medical care for treatment.
If you’re feeling under the weather, walk into AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for same-day care. Our team of dedicated medical professionals is board-certified and trained to diagnose and treat a variety of common conditions. We never require that you schedule an appointment, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you!
Cold Symptoms
Getting a cold is nothing to worry about. Colds are mild viral infections. They can cause irritating symptoms which can linger for up to 2 weeks, but they typically resolve on their own without medical intervention. Colds rarely cause a fever because they do not prompt a strong enough immune response. However, colds can sometimes cause a fever for those with weakened immune systems including young children, the elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system.
Typical cold symptoms include:
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Post-nasal drip
- Runny nose
Differentiating Between a Cold and a Flu Symptoms
While colds do not often cause fevers, other fall illnesses can lead to a fever. The flu is a common illness that can begin with mild cold-like symptoms but worsen quickly into a much more severe illness. Differentiating between a cold and the flu can be tricky, as both are respiratory illnesses with overlapping symptoms, but there are key differences.
The common cold typically has milder symptoms that may linger but don’t worsen over time. In contrast, the flu worsens continuously over time and has more severe symptoms. High fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and headaches are common flu symptoms, along with respiratory symptoms similar to a cold. The flu can also lead to more serious complications, such as pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations. While colds usually resolve within a week, the flu often requires longer recovery. It is important to understand illness symptoms and which illnesses cause which symptoms so that you can manage them properly.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Illness Symptoms
You should seek urgent care when your symptoms become severe, or complications arise. Colds often do not require medical treatment. Instead, you can manage your symptoms using over-the-counter medications that target specific symptoms. However, it is important to monitor your symptoms. If they worsen over time, you should seek medical care. Many more severe illnesses start with cold-like symptoms but can lead to a more severe illness.
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, severe dehydration, dizziness, or a bluish tint to the lips or face - seek emergency care in the emergency room. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions, should also be cautious and consult a healthcare provider early if symptoms persist.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment
At AFC Urgent Care Stoneham, we understand that illness symptoms can be uncomfortable. Our clinic is equipped with a laboratory on-site, allowing our team to assess your symptoms and get to the bottom of their cause. Properly identifying what is causing your symptoms is the most efficient way to heal. That is why AFC Stoneham makes it easy to get the care that you need. Our clinic is open 7 days a week from 8am-8pm and we never require that you schedule an appointment in advance. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you!
