Winter is the season for colds, flu, sore throats and other respiratory illnesses. While most cases of the common cold can be treated at home with rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications, there are times when you may need urgent care. Knowing when to seek medical attention can help you prevent complications and get back to your normal routine as soon as possible.
Our team at CLEAR Immediate Care in Chicago discusses when you need urgent care for winter colds and sore throats.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Cold and Flu Symptoms
The common cold and flu share many symptoms, including fever, cough, congestion and fatigue. In most cases, these symptoms will go away on their own within a few days to a week. However, there are some situations when you need to seek medical attention:
- High Fever: If your fever is above 101 degrees Fahrenheit and does not respond to over-the-counter medications, you should seek medical attention at our Urgent Care Facility. A high fever can be a sign of a more serious infection and can lead to dehydration.
- Difficulty Breathing: If you are having trouble breathing, seek medical attention immediately. This can be a sign of a more serious respiratory infection, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
- Persistent Cough: If your cough lasts for more than a week, or if you are coughing up blood, you should seek medical attention. A persistent cough can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as tuberculosis.
- Severe Headache: If you have a severe headache that does not respond to over-the-counter medications, you should seek urgent care. This can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as meningitis.
- Dehydration: If you are experiencing severe vomiting or diarrhea, you may become dehydrated. Seek medical attention if you are unable to keep fluids down.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Sore Throat
A sore throat is a common symptom of many respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, flu and strep throat. In most cases, a sore throat will go away on its own within a few days. However, there are some situations when you need to seek medical attention:
- Difficulty Swallowing: If you are having difficulty swallowing, seek medical attention. This can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as tonsillitis.
- Swollen Tonsils: If your tonsils are very swollen and red, or if you have white spots on your tonsils, you may have strep throat. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
- Fever: If you have a fever along with your sore throat, seek medical attention. This can be a sign of a more serious infection.
- Difficulty Breathing: If you are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. This can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as epiglottitis.
- Ear Pain: If you have ear pain along with your sore throat, seek medical attention. This can be a sign of a more serious infection, such as an ear infection.
Chicago Whole Health Urgent Care and Immediate Care
Winter colds and sore throats are common, and most cases can be treated at home with rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications. However, there are times when you need to seek medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment right away with CLEAR Immediate Care.