We are in the growing season where more people are coughing and blowing their nose. But, when is it essential to see a doctor? What may seem like a simple cold can turn into a far more complicated condition.
“While colds might not be severe, cold symptoms may take a lot from you” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of Insurance, Florida's largest independent medical health insurance company.
In fact, colds can wear out your immune system, leaving your body susceptible to other health problems. Colds typically continue for fourteen days go away.
So can you be sure if you have a chilly or something more serious, like the flu? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the common cold and flu are generally respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms. However, those struggling with influenza convey more intense symptoms along with fever and chills.
“If you aren't confident that you or a family member must visit a doctor, always call your physician's office to obtain advice,” says Ellsworth Buck, V . p . of Insurance, Florida's top independent medical health insurance company.
Below is a list compiled from consumer health website, EverydayHealth.com, of symptoms that require medical attention.
Children
- Fever above 103 F or a fever that lasts a lot more than three days
- Symptoms that last more the 10 days
- Trouble breathing, fast breathing or wheezing
- Bluish skin color
- Earache or drainage from the ear
- Changes in mental state, for example not getting out of bed, irritability or seizures
- Flu-like symptoms that improve, then return with a fever and a worse cough
- Worsening of the chronic medical condition
Adults
- A high, prolonged fever above 102 F
- Symptoms that last more than 10 days or get worse
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Fainting or feeling like you are going to faint
- Confusion or disorientation
- Severe, persistent vomiting
- Severe pain in your face or forehead
- Hoarseness, a sore throat or perhaps a cough that won't go away after 10 days
