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While unpleasant, the common cold typically clears up on its own and doesn’t require professional treatment. Many over-the-counter solutions and home remedies can be used to alleviate symptoms like cough and congestion. In certain cases, however, a doctor’s input may be necessary when symptoms become more serious. 

When You Should See a Doctor for a Cold

1. Painful Swallowing

While congestion and other cold symptoms may contribute to a scratchy throat, pain during swallowing can indicate an infection. A cold can leave you more vulnerable to conditions like strep throat and tonsillitis.

2. Severe or Persistent Cough

doctorAny time a cough is severe or persists for more than three weeks, it could indicate a disease such as whooping cough. Lingering coughs can also point to asthma, postnasal drip, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

3. Shortness of Breath

A stuffy nose and cough can make you feel like you’re becoming winded more easily, but shortness of breath is never a normal symptom and should always be checked out by a doctor. Difficulty breathing and chest pain may suggest a more serious medical condition like pneumonia.

4. High Fever

Colds typically aren’t accompanied by a fever, although the flu can cause fever and body aches. High fevers persisting more than three days may be the result of an infection, for which you’ll need professional diagnosis and treatment.

5. Long-Lasting Symptoms

Colds may last between seven and 10 days, but symptoms can linger for up to two weeks. If you see little to no improvement after this period, your doctor may want to check for infections like sinusitis.

 

Whether you have stubborn cold symptoms or any other general health concern you’d like addressed, turn to the doctors at Kona-Kohala Health Care Services in Kailua-Kona, HI. Dr. Donald Nikaitani, Dr. Richard Pekala, and their experienced staff provide quality medical care while ensuring patients feel comfortable during their visit. Learn more about the board-certified physicians’ backgrounds on their website, or call (808) 329-1346 to schedule an appointment.

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