Cold, Flu, and Coughs: When Should You Call the Clinic?
When someone in your family has a cough, fever, or sore throat, it can be hard to know whether to wait or call the clinic.
Many common illnesses get better with rest and home care. But sometimes, your family needs medical attention.
Here's what to look for.
Is It a Cold or the Flu?
Colds and flu can have similar symptoms, but there are some differences.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Common colds often start slowly, with a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough.
Flu often starts suddenly, with body aches, chills, tiredness, and sometimes a fever.
Other infections, including COVID-19 and RSV, can cause similar symptoms.
Because symptoms can overlap, a healthcare provider may recommend testing when needed.
When Should You Call the Clinic?
The CDC recommends paying attention to symptoms that are getting worse or not improving.
Contact your healthcare provider if someone in your family has:
A fever that lasts or comes back after getting better.
A cough that keeps getting worse.
A sore throat that makes swallowing difficult.
Unusual tiredness or weakness.
Symptoms that improve but then return or become worse.
Important: A baby younger than 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher needs prompt medical care.
Trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or difficulty waking someone up may be signs of an emergency. Seek immediate medical help.
What About a Sore Throat That Won't Go Away?
Sometimes, a sore throat and unusual tiredness may be signs of mononucleosis (mono).
The CDC explains that mono is often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and extreme tiredness.
A healthcare provider can check your symptoms and decide whether testing is needed.
Do You Need Antibiotics?
Not every illness needs antibiotics.
The CDC explains that antibiotics work against certain bacterial infections, but they do not treat viruses that cause colds or flu.
Your healthcare provider can help decide which treatment is right for you.
We're Here When Your Family Needs Us
At Southwest Pediatric & Family Care, we care for children, teens, adults, and older adults.
Whether it's a lingering cough, a sore throat, or a fever that isn't improving, our team can help.
We offer sick visits, acute care, and laboratory testing when medically needed, including evaluation for mono.
Not sure if it's time to call? We're here to help.
📞 575-936-4350
🌐 swpedscare.com
Medical References
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your healthcare provider.
