From Viruses to Bacterial Infections: When Immediate Care Is the Right Choice

It’s tempting to blow off a scratchy throat, runny nose, or cough as something you’ll get over in a couple of days. But is this always true? When are the signs of upper respiratory distress a call for immediate care? Should you always see a doctor for these issues? And what can they do about it if you do? 

We’re well underway with late fall and winter’s virus and flu season, and it’s important to be aware of when you’re dealing with a mild tickle in your throat and when you need immediate care and attention. Let us help you get the treatment you need at Schaumburg Immediate Care. 

Why we don’t go to the doctor for the sniffles 

For most, waking up with a sore throat or a runny nose is considered a nuisance. Many of us take some kind of supplement or cold medicine and go about our days, hoping it will manage the condition for us. But why is this the norm? Why don’t we consider that many different illnesses can cause the same symptoms, some of which may require treatment? 

Many think society has simply shifted in the direction that, if you’re well enough to continue through your day, you should, and the rest will work itself out with time. Scientific American even mentioned that, though scientists are still attempting to cure the common cold, a drug like this probably wouldn’t be given to healthy people who would be fine in a few days. 

In many cases, it’s normalized to continue working and going to school through an upper respiratory illness. However, you shouldn’t feel obligated to do so, and it can actually prolong the illness, let alone get others sick. But even if you choose to stay home, many still prefer to self-manage their condition. So, when should you actually seek immediate care? 

Seeking immediate care for upper respiratory illness 

You probably still don’t want to run to the doctor’s office for any little thing. It can be pricey, plus you probably don’t feel like going out anyway. But certain signs mean something may be more wrong than you realize, and treatment from a medical professional is not only smart but necessary. 

Your symptoms are not improving 

If you’ve been sick for several days or notice you’re getting worse, it’s good practice to seek medical care. Your happiness and well-being depend on your health, and you probably want to start feeling better already if you’ve been sick for four or more days with no improvement. 

What’s more, being this sick for this long may mean you need more than just rest. For example, strep throat often requires antibiotic treatment, and without it, you may not notice yourself getting better for a long time.  

You have underlying health issues 

Certain illnesses can cause serious problems for those who are otherwise healthy. Still, even the common cold can be dangerous for those who are very young, very old, or have another issue that compromises their health. If you fall into one of these categories, it’s better to be safe than sorry and see the doctor — even for the sniffles.

You’re having trouble breathing

Breathing can be uncomfortable when you’re dealing with an upper respiratory illness. But the moment you notice you’re not able to take in air or that you’re struggling to breathe, it’s time to seek immediate care. It’s always important to be safe in this situation, and choosing to visit a facility like ours or an emergency department is always safer than gasping for air.

You have a very high fever 

Fevers often come with the territory when you have a respiratory illness. But an extremely high fever can be dangerous, leading to brain damage, seizures, and possibly even loss of life. If you have a fever over 104 degrees, you should seek medical attention immediately. 

You want relief

Even if your illness isn’t endangering your life, you may simply feel that your cough and runny nose are burdensome and need faster relief. This is a perfectly acceptable reason to seek immediate care for any of these illnesses. 

You can see a doctor for the sniffles

The symptoms associated with bronchitis, strep throat, the flu, or COVID seem easy to pass off as the common cold. But even a cold might require medical attention if it causes any of the issues listed above. Remember, you can always come to Schaumburg Immediate Care for treatment of respiratory problems. We’re here to help.

To schedule an appointment at our Schaumburg office, call us at 847-250-1700 or visit us online.