Common Cold Treatment in Orlando, FL
The common cold can make you tired, weak, and miserable. Even so, you don’t necessarily need to see a doctor for treatment. Most common cold symptoms—a sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, and general feeling of malaise—will run their course over several days. In the meantime, you will likely feel better if you rest at home, drink plenty of water, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever if necessary.
With that said, it’s important to keep in mind that the common cold can produce symptoms that are very similar to those of other, more serious conditions, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. How do you know the difference? Keep a careful watch on your symptoms. Here are some signs that you should seek professional treatment for the “common cold:”
You Feel Lousy for More Than 10 Days
Typically, common cold symptoms clear up within about a week. If 10 days have passed and you don’t feel any better, or if your symptoms initially improved but then suddenly worsened, you should see a doctor.
You Have Trouble Breathing
Even though the common cold can make you feel stuffed up and congested, it should not make you feel as if you can’t catch your breath. Breathing difficulties such as rapid breathing, shallow breathing, shortness of breath, and wheezing may indicate a larger issue, such as pneumonia. Only a doctor can make this determination.
You Can’t Keep Anything Down
Essential for good health, proper hydration is even more important when you are sick. If you have severe diarrhea, are vomiting frequently, or are unable to eat or drink, you can become dehydrated very quickly. As a result, your body may not have enough water to perform its vital functions. Some signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, infrequent urination, and dark-colored urine. A doctor can help you replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
You Have a Persistent Fever
When you’re sick, a fever is actually a good sign—it means that your body is fighting off an infection. However, a fever that accompanies a run-of-the-mill cold should be relatively mild and short-lived. If your fever persists, it may be a sign that your body is battling something more serious than the common cold.
You’re Just Worried
If you fear your cold symptoms are getting out of hand, it’s best to err on the side of caution. As a member of Optimum Direct Care—a membership-based direct primary care practice in Orlando, FL—you are always welcome to come in for common cold treatment. You can take comfort in knowing that Dr. Toni “Muzzi” Muzzonigro, a doctor you know and trust, is always here for you.
To learn more about our services, contact Optimum Direct Care today.