How long should you wait to go to a doctor for a cold?

“If you are reaching the 10-day mark of a cold and are not feeling any better, you should see your doctor,” says Christine Kirlew, M.D., an internal medicine physician at Piedmont. “Most cold viruses last seven to 10 days, so if it lasts longer than that, it could be a bacterial infection and require antibiotics.”

How do you know if your cold is getting worse?

Symptoms. On the second and third days, you’re likely to have worse symptoms, such as a consistently runny nose and increased sore throat. You may also have a low-grade fever with a temperature less than 102°F. You may not feel much different than you did the first day if your at-home remedies are working.

How long does the common cold usually last?

How long does a cold last? Colds generally go away within seven to 10 days.

Can a cold go away in 3 days?

Colds usually last 3 to 7 days, but sometimes they hang on as long as 2 weeks. If you’re under the weather for longer than that, one of these things could be to blame.

When should you see a doctor for a cold?

When Should You See a Doctor for a Cold? 1 If your cold lasts much longer than two weeks or keeps coming back,… 2 Serious Complications of the Common Cold. Colds can wear down your body’s natural defenses,… 3 Checklists of Cold Symptoms to Watch For. Of course, most colds will never require an emergency room…

When should you see a doctor for a sinus infection?

So, if you’ve been hacking away for more than 2-3 weeks, your doctor may give you a test to see if you’ve got it. Your congestion and headache won’t go away. Colds and allergies that block your nose with mucus can lead to a sinus infection. If your cold medicine doesn’t give you relief, see your doctor for more treatment.

When to go to the ER for a cold or flu?

You have trouble breathing or chest pain. Your cold or flu shouldn’t make you short of breath or cause your chest to hurt. If that’s happening to you, it could be a sign of a more serious problem, such as heart disease, asthma, or pneumonia. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room.

When should you go to the doctor for a fever?

Adults with a fever of 102 F (39 C) or higher and children with a fever of 103 F (39.5 C) or higher, should see a doctor, Dr. Edelman advises. If your infant is younger than 3 months old and has a fever of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher, go to the doctor immediately, says pediatrician Carlos Lerner, MD,…