COUGHS, COLDS AND SORE THROATS

Infections cause symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, sinus congestion, ear pain, fever and chills. A lot of these symptoms are USUALLY caused by a virus.

Antibiotics DO NOT work for viruses. Your body will fight off the virus on its own, usually within 7-10 days. It can actually be more harmful to take antibiotics when they are not needed

Potential harms of antibiotics

  • diarrhea, vomiting, and upset stomach

  • allergic reactions

  • rashes

  • antibiotic resistance

DID YOU KNOW?  Coughs, colds & sore throats last longer than most people think. Most of the time, you will be sick for at least 10 days.

What can you do to help you feel better?

  • Rest and plenty of fluids

  • Tylenol and Advil to help manage fever, pain, muscle aches

  • Nasal saline rinses to help relieve nasal congestion. Steam or vaporizers can help a lot as well

  • Sip warm fluids. Warm fluids can ease stuffiness by increasing mucus flow

  • Honey can help with coughs and sore throats for both adults and children

When to see a doctor?

  • Severe or persistent fever

  • If you have trouble breathing or wheezing

  • if your symptoms are getting worse or not improving after 7-10 days

  • if you have a very sore throat and fever but no stuffy nose and no cough (this may be strep throat)