The common cold is one of the most frequent illnesses people experience each year. While it is generally mild, its symptoms can make you feel run-down and uncomfortable. A cold is usually caused by viruses such as rhinoviruses, which attack the upper respiratory tract. Understanding its most common symptoms, whether it can trigger a fever, and when to seek medical attention can help you manage it better.
If you’re feeling under the weather, AFC Urgent Care Back Bay can help. We offer same-day illness diagnosis and treatment on a walk-in basis in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, 7 days a week. Whether you’re a busy college student or a working professional in the Boston area, AFC Back Bay makes it convenient for you to receive prompt medical care when it works for your schedule. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below.
3 Common Symptoms Caused by a Cold
Most people recognize a cold by its telltale signs, which typically appear a day or two after exposure to the virus. The three most common symptoms are:
- Runny or Stuffy Nose: A cold often starts with a runny nose that later becomes congested. This is your body’s way of flushing out the virus.
- Sore Throat: Irritation in the throat is common and may last for a few days. It’s usually mild but can make swallowing uncomfortable.
- Sneezing and Coughing: These are your body’s defense mechanisms to clear irritants from your nose and throat.
While fatigue, mild headaches, and watery eyes can also occur, these three symptoms are the most recognizable indicators of a cold.
Can a Cold Give Fever?
Yes, colds can sometimes cause a fever, but not in every case. While colds are mostly associated with mild symptoms, a slight fever can occur, especially in children. In adults, fever caused by a cold is usually low-grade (below 100.4°F). If your fever is higher than this, it could indicate something more serious, such as the flu or a bacterial infection.
How to Treat a Cold
If you have a cold, it usually does not require aggressive treatment and will go away on its own. It is important to let your body rest so that your immune system can effectively fight off the virus. Be sure to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or clear broths to prevent dehydration. If you do develop a mild fever, over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help lower a mild fever and relieve discomfort. If your fever is above 102°F, you should seek medical care.
Visit AFC Back Bay for Same-Day Illness Treatment
While most colds go away on their own within a week or two, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Seeking timely care ensures proper treatment, faster recovery, and peace of mind knowing your symptoms are being monitored by a healthcare expert.
At AFC Urgent Care Back Bay, we offer convenient and affordable illness care on a walk-in basis in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. Simply walk in when it’s convenient; we’re open from 8am to 8pm daily. We work with most medical insurance plans and have affordable rates for patients paying out-of-pocket. To learn more, walk into the clinic or give us a call at (617) 869-0500.
